What Do I Do if I'm in a Car Accident Caused by Street Racing?

 Posted on March 15, 2026 in Car Accidents

Being hit by a street racer can be both terrifying and infuriating. These crashes often happen without warning, at extreme speeds, and can cause life-altering injuries. And unlike truly accidental car wrecks, they’re 100 percent tied to someone else’s bad decisions.

If you or someone you love was hurt in an accident caused by street racing in 2026, you have options. A Cook County, IL car accident attorney can help you figure out who is responsible and what compensation you may be entitled to.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Street Racing Accident?

The steps you take right after the crash can have a big impact on your ability to recover compensation later. Consider these steps that could help protect your health and your claim:

• Call 911. Getting police on the scene is especially important in street racing cases. Officers can document that racing was involved and may catch the drivers responsible.
• Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel okay. Some serious injuries don't show symptoms immediately. A medical record created close to the time of the crash is also important evidence.
• Document the scene if it’s safe to do so. Take photos of your vehicle, the other vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
• Collect contact and insurance information from any drivers involved, as well as names and contact information from witnesses.
• Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance company before speaking with an attorney.

If the driver left, write down everything you and any witnesses remember about them or their vehicle before you forget.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Street Racing Accident in Illinois?

Street racing accidents are not always straightforward when it comes to liability. There may be more than one party responsible for your injuries.

The Drivers Involved in the Race

Any driver who was participating in the race can be held liable for injuries they caused. Illinois law treats street racing as reckless conduct, and drivers who engage in it can face both criminal charges and civil liability. Street racing is illegal in Illinois and includes any situation where two or more drivers compete in speed on a public road, per 625 ILCS 5/11-506.

Spectators and Organizers

In some cases, people who organized the race or encouraged it, even from the sidelines, may share in the liability. If the event was planned and promoted, there may be additional parties whose actions contributed to the crash.

Other Potentially Liable Parties

Depending on the circumstances, liability could also extend to:

• A vehicle owner who allowed a reckless driver to use their car
• An employer if a driver was operating a company vehicle
• A bar or restaurant that overserved a driver who was also impaired

The complicated liability of street racing accidents is a very good reason to seek professional legal help afterward.

What Kind of Compensation Can I Recover from a Street Racing Accident in IL?

If you were injured in a street racing accident that was not your fault, you may be able to recover damages for a range of losses. These can include current and future medical bills, lost wages if you miss work, pain and suffering, damage to your vehicle, and compensation for permanent disability or disfigurement (if applicable).

Because street racing involves intentional reckless behavior, Illinois courts may also consider punitive damages in some cases. Punitive damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer and discourage others from similar conduct rather than just compensating the victim.

What if the Street Racer Who Hit Me Fled the Scene?

Unfortunately, street racers sometimes flee after a crash. If the driver who hit you cannot be identified, you may still have options. Your own uninsured motorist coverage may apply, and an attorney can help you explore every possible avenue for recovery. If the street racer performs a hit-and-run, your best option to get compensation is to seek professional legal help.

Call a Barrington, IL Car Accident Attorney Today

Street racing accident cases are unique for the possible involvement of a variety of parties and the explicitly illegal nature of street racing. For these cases, you need an experienced car wreck lawyer on your side.

At Barrington Injury Attorneys, our Cook County personal injury lawyers offer free consultations and are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. We branched off from Lucas Law and bring that same commitment to clients in the Barrington area. Call us at 224-900-HURT today.