Large Police Force Tackles Sideshow at Potomac Avenue Intersection
Sideshow problems that have been plaguing Sacramento are still continuing, however, local authorities are working hard to put them to a halt. On Sunday, April 10, Sacramento police seized four guns and arrested nine people on felony charges after breaking up a sideshow at the Potomac Avenue intersection with Northgate Boulevard, which began about 5:30 p.m. Almost 30 citations were issued by Sacramento police, and 28 vehicles were towed. Police officers from Citrus Heights and Elk Grove as well as officers with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) helped to break up the sideshow.
Neighbor Says Sideshows Are Common
One person posted a video to Instagram showing a sideshow and someone being struck by a vehicle that may have been the same car that knocked down a pole later. A neighbor in the area said they heard the vehicles skidding and that a sideshow occurs in the area every few days. It was her belief police officers weren’t concerned enough to halt the activity and then heard helicopters approaching overhead. One news station obtained surveillance videos of the incident showing three vehicles doing donuts. In addition, a passenger in one of the vehicles can be seen hanging out of a window and the tires smoking.
Fatalities Caused by Holding a Sideshow
In California, 30 fatalities have been reported due to sideshows since 2015. One hit-and-run driver in a blue Dodge Charger is still being sought by detectives with the CHP after striking a spectator at a March 31 sideshow, causing major injuries. That evening, the sideshow held at Vista Park Court involved around 60 cars. A large grant was given to the CHP earlier in the year to help deter young people from holding sideshows, including money for public awareness, presentations in schools, patrols, and undercover operations.
Sideshows Frequently Involve Injury Accidents
Anytime you have a large group of people gathered to race cars, do donuts, and perform stunts such as “burnout,” which involves braking and accelerating at the same time, it increases the risk of injury accidents. Fights and other altercations, bystanders who are watching and get hit by one of the vehicles, and even police who respond to the scene can face serious injuries. When large groups in vehicles that attend these events go to the location, it can also pose a danger to bicycle riders, other motorists and pedestrians.
How a Lawyer Can Help
When someone is injured by a participant in a sideshow or while street racing, they have the right to claim compensation from the person who did it. This is when you benefit from seeking help from knowledgeable, tenacious lawyers such as those at AutoAccident.com, who have the resources and ability to hold the at-fault person responsible. With their help, you can recover the cost of all of your medical expenses, lost wages and be reimbursed for your pain and suffering.
Law Passed to Punish Those Who Participate in Sideshows
In October 2021, Governor Newsom signed into law California Assembly Bill 3, however, it does not take effect until July 1, 2025. The new law authorizes the suspension of a driver’s license for a minimum of 90 days up to six months for those who are convicted of street racing or participating in a sideshow. However, driving might be allowed for employment purposes. Under current laws, a driver who participates in street racing faces a jail sentence of up to 90 days and a fine of up to $500.
Sacramento Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith. I’m a Sacramento car accident lawyer. Call (916) 921-6400 in the Sacramento area to schedule a free and friendly consultation with one of our injury lawyers if you or a loved one was hurt in a traffic accident caused by someone’s negligence. You can also reach us at (800) 404-5400 or by sending us an online message.
Having information about a law firm is helpful when someone has suffered an injury and is looking for advice. At the following, you can see how our injury lawyers have assisted others in obtaining compensation following an accident:
Photo attribution: Image by Netto Figueiredo from Pixabay
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