4 new CA laws that crack down on sideshows and street takeovers

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CALIFORNIA – Governor Gavin Newsom signed four bills into law, September 23, to help law enforcement crack down on sideshows and street takeovers.

According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) there have been 30 deadly crashes and 124 injuries from sideshows and street racing over the past five years.

“Sideshows are reckless, criminal activities that endanger our communities. We have seen too many people killed or hurt at these events,” said Newsom in a statement.

He goes on to say that lawmakers are sending a message to anyone considering participating in or attending a sideshow – stricter penalties are in place, including the potential loss of a vehicle.

Seizure and impoundment

Newsom's office says he’s strengthened California’s ability to improve road safety by signing the following bills:

AB 1978 by Assemblymember Kate Sanchez (R-Rancho Santa Margarita) allows law enforcement to remove and seize a vehicle used in a speed contest or one used as a barricade on a highway or in a parking lot without having to take the driver into custody.

AB 2186 by Assemblymember Greg Wallis (R-Palm Springs) clarifies that vehicles involved in sideshows in parking lots are subject to the same impoundment laws as those on roadways – impoundment for up to 30 days.

AB 2807 by Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua (D-Stockton) clarifies that a “sideshow” is also known as a “street takeover.”

AB 3085 by Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson) includes speed contests in the list of offenses for which law enforcement may impound a vehicle pursuant to a warrant or order issued by a judge.

RELATED: CA Senate passes bill to add speed limiter to all new cars