Street Racing Facts & Statistics (2026)

11,775

Killed in speeding-related crashes in the U.S. in 2023^[1]

29%

Of all U.S. traffic deaths involve speeding^[1]

6×

Racing crashes are ~6× more likely to happen at 65+ mph than other fatal crashes^[2]

≈100

Deaths a year in racing-flagged crashes — widely considered an undercount^{[2] [3]}

What the Research Shows

The Numbers Behind the Noise

In the landmark peer-reviewed analysis of federal crash data, researchers identified 315 fatal crashes involving street racing over just four years — killing 399 people. The death toll exceeds the number of crashes because racing crashes don't only kill drivers: passengers, people in other cars, and onlookers die too.^[2]

The drivers in those fatal racing crashes were disproportionately teenagers and young men, and more likely than other drivers to already have crashes and violations on their records.^[2] Research centers studying the issue consistently identify the core population as males between 18 and 34.^[4]

Racing fatal crashes cluster on urban roads — the same streets where families live, walk, and drive.^[2]

The most important fact about street racing deaths: nobody is officially counting. As the ASU Center for Problem-Oriented Policing puts it, “data are difficult to obtain, because neither the federal government nor the insurance industry tracks related casualties.” Every number on this page is a floor — not a ceiling.^[3]

Ground Zero

Los Angeles & Street Takeovers

Los Angeles County is one of the few places in America where street takeovers are officially tracked — the Sheriff's Department publishes a quarterly Street Takeover Statistical Summary.^[5]

In early 2024, reported street races in the county were up nearly 50% year-over-year — 176 reported races in the first quarter alone, alongside 190 takeovers.^[6] By late 2024, a single county district went from 191 to 297 takeovers in one quarter — a 64% jump.^[7]

There is also proof that pressure works: after the county stood up a dedicated enforcement effort, takeovers in patrolled areas fell 33% year-over-year in early 2025 — and the county expanded enforcement again in 2026.^[8]

Behind every one of these numbers is a street, a crowd, and someone's child. Explore the stories on our impact globe →

The Law

What Racing Costs in California

Engaging in a speed contest on a California highway is a crime under Vehicle Code § 23109 — punishable by up to 90 days in jail, fines, license suspension, and impoundment of the vehicle for up to 30 days.^[9]

As of July 1, 2025, California law formally defines a “sideshow” (street takeover) — two or more people blocking traffic to perform stunts, speed contests, or reckless driving for spectators — and adds tougher penalties for participating in or aiding one, including license suspension provisions.^[10]

This is general information, not legal advice. Cited for a violation and ordered to take a class? Our court-accepted RDI program can help →

Writing About Street Racing?

You're welcome to cite this page. Suggested citation: Street Racing Kills, “Street Racing Facts & Statistics,” streetracingkills.org/street-racing-statistics (last reviewed July 2026).

For interviews, expert commentary, and story resources, visit our Press & Media Room →

Sources

Last reviewed July 2026. Statistics are reported as published by their sources; where sources conflict or data is untracked, we say so.