Laws prohibiting street racing, drag racing, and other motor vehicle speed and endurance competitions—as well as stunt exhibitions—vary from state to state. These laws are usually located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal code or criminal code—and generally prohibit drivers from participating in:

• a race;

• a vehicle speed competition or contest;

• a drag race or acceleration contest;

• a test of physical endurance of the operator of a vehicle; or

• in connection with a drag race, an exhibition of vehicle speed or acceleration or to make a vehicle speed record.

Drag race may be defined as the operation of:

• two or more vehicles from a point side by side at accelerating speeds in a competitive attempt to outdistance each other; or

• one or more vehicles over a common selected course, from the same place to the same place, for the purpose of comparing the relative speeds or power of acceleration of the vehicle or vehicles in a specified distance or time.

Race is defined as the use of one or more vehicles attempting to:

• outgain or outdistance another vehicle or prevent another vehicle from passing;

• arrive at a given destination ahead of another vehicle or vehicles; or

• test the physical stamina or endurance of an operator over a long-distance driving route.

Illegal stunt driving or stunting usually involves a parking lot or blocked off street where drivers use their vehicles to perform stunts, such as driving on two wheels; “doing donuts” by spinning the car in a circle; or drifting while turning a corner.

In South Carolina, street racing, drag racing, and other unauthorized motor vehicle speed and endurance competitions, as well as stunt exhibitions, are illegal under state law. These activities are typically addressed in the state's traffic laws and can result in criminal charges. South Carolina Code of Laws Section 56-5-1590 specifically prohibits racing on public roads and highways. This includes any race, speed competition or contest, drag race, acceleration contest, test of physical endurance of the operator, and any exhibition of speed or acceleration intended to make a speed record. The definitions of 'drag race' and 'race' in South Carolina align with the general descriptions provided, emphasizing the competitive nature and the use of public roadways for these activities. Violations of these laws can lead to severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and driver's license suspension. It is important for individuals to understand that participating in or organizing such events on public roads is against the law and can have serious legal consequences.