The legal penalties for street racing and exhibitions of speed have reached an all-time high in California. 

Illegal street takeovers and sideshows are also on the rise and are now a major safety concern for Bakersfield residents and other CA municipalities.

At the halfway point in April 2026, large-scale takeovers in Los Angeles, Rosemead, and Salinas turned violent. These incidents resulted in multiple injuries and dozens of arrests.

The Bakersfield police are strictly enforcing these laws to prevent similar tragedies. Drivers and spectators must understand that these “fun” stunts now carry criminal consequences, including jail time or probation.

Understanding Street Racing and Exhibitions of Speed

Participating in a speed contest, exhibitions of speed, sideshows, or street takeovers is a serious criminal offense. 

CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 23109, Exhibition of Speed and its amendment, AB-2087, specifically prohibits these dangerous activities on any public highway or off-street parking.

The law begins with: “A person shall not engage in a motor vehicle speed contest on a highway or in an off-street parking facility,” and continues with: "A person shall not aid or abet in a motor vehicle speed contest on a highway or in an off-street parking facility."

Aiding and abetting is defined as putting out cones or otherwise blocking streets, organizing these events, sell tickets, or participate by watching.

The Bakersfield Police Department frequently patrols known gathering spots and monitors social media to prevent street takeovers and sideshows. 

Even being a passenger or a spectator can lead to serious legal trouble.

Warning for Juveniles and Local Residents

We want to caution juveniles against "aiding and abetting" these illegal activities. Simply being present to watch a sideshow is now a misdemeanor offense.

It might seem like an entertaining way to spend the evening, but after a conviction, the college or university you applied to will likely see it on your background check.  

Law enforcement can now seize and impound vehicles even if the owner was only watching. Do not risk your car or your freedom by associating with these dangerous groups. Just being in the area could lead to your arrest and vehicle impoundment. 

Serious Consequences of a Conviction

A conviction for street racing and exhibitions of speed will stay on your record.

The courts in Kern County, CA, are less likely to show leniency for these crimes, after officers are being shot and stores are looted.

The legal and financial consequences of a conviction include:

• County Jail time of at least 24 hours and up to 90 days, or probation for up to three years.
• Community service requirements could be mandatory for juveniles.
• A base fine of $355 to $1,000, which can exceed $3,000 with surcharges.
• Mandatory vehicle impoundment is required by AB-2087, with towing and storage fees of nearly $2,000.

These penalties are designed to deter people from turning public roads into race tracks. A single night of reckless behavior can cost you thousands of dollars, your license, and your reputation.

Ask Bigger & Harman About Street Racing and Exhibitions of Speed

Call the team at Bigger & Harman for a free, no-obligation consultation about a commercial vehicle lane violation at (661) 367-8232 (se habla Español).

We’ve resolved more than 30,000 traffic tickets for California drivers over the past decade. Contact us to learn more about what we can do for you. 

We offer a free consultation to get started—use our convenient contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.  

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section

Q: Is the punishment for street racing and exhibitions of speed the same for spectators?

A: Under CA VC 23109 and AB-2087, aiding and abetting an exhibition of speed is a misdemeanor. Spectators can face fines, jail time, and vehicle impoundment, even when they were arrested in the area of a sideshow or street takeover.

Q: Can the police impound my car if I wasn't the driver?

A: Yes, vehicles involved in or used to facilitate sideshows can be seized and impounded. Ask a CA traffic attorney for assistance. Owners may face massive storage fees of around $2,000 even if they were only watching unless the charges are dismissed.

Q: Will a sideshow conviction affect my car insurance?

A: Insurance companies view these sideshows and street takeovers as high-risk behavior. Your premiums will likely skyrocket, or your policy may be canceled entirely.

References:

CA VC Section 23109, Exhibition of Speed and its amendment, AB-2087 Vehicles: Sideshows and Street Takeovers.

The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2026.