Explanation
The purpose of this ordinance is to amend Section 2133.07 of the Columbus City Codes, adding the prohibition of stunt driving and street takeovers to the section.
During and following the COVID pandemic, there has been a surge of street racing, stunt driving, and street takeovers throughout the country, creating dangerous activity on public streets. Columbus Police have responded with various initiatives, such as Operation Wheels Down, which increased enforcement and prosecution of those who recklessly drive ATVs or dirt bikes on city streets. CPD has also responded to various large and high-profile incidents of this reckless exhibition, including a 2023 incident where participants opened fire on police officers. Residents across the City have raised concerns about these activities, which worsen traffic safety and endanger lives.
Along with municipalities, state legislatures have created new provisions and penalties for this activity, including Florida, Washington, Tennessee, and Texas. The Ohio Legislature recently passed House Bill 56, which addresses this issue in the Ohio Revised Code. The City is now proposing to adopt similar prohibitions on this activity in the Columbus City Codes, amending the section on street racing to include stunt driving and street takeovers. The amendment includes the following:
· Prohibits any person from knowingly participating in stunt driving (i.e., burnouts, doughnuts, drifting wheelies, or allowing passengers to ride partially or fully outside the vehicle) on any public road, street, or highway, or private property open to the public.
· Prohibits a person from knowingly participating in a street takeover (i.e., blocking or impeding the regular flow of vehicle or pedestrian traffic for the purpose of street racing or stunt driving) on any public road, street, highway, or private property that is open to the public.
· Specifies that anyone rendering assistance to stunt driving or street takeover must be c...
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