Apr 27, 2021 02:15 PM EDT By Ernest Hamilton, UniversityHerald Reporter

On November 21, 2020, in DeKalb County, Jaye Mia Sanford was driving along Columbia Drive when a car crossed into her lane and hit her car head-on. Sanford, a 52-year-old wife and mother of three, was killed in the crash. Sanford's family believes her death was caused by illegal street racing. 

The DeKalb County police released a statement, "At this time, we have no evidence of drag racing." The driver responsible for causing the accident is in custody at Grady Hospital, and the case is still under investigation.

The Dangers of Drag Racing

Mother-in-Law of the victim, Bobbie Sanford made a statement, "I think we've lost too many lives and we have endured too many injuries from people that are just carelessly driving and not looking out for the interest of others."

Drag racing or street racing is an unsanctioned and illegal form of auto racing that occurs on a public road. This form of racing is dangerous due to reckless driving as these drivers often reach high speeds while on public roads that other vehicles not involved in the race, are also on. This not only puts other cars at risk, but also nearby pedestrians. 

Current Legislation on Drag Racing

State Senator Emmanuel Jones proposed a bill in memory of Sanford. "If made law, it would make it a misdemeanor to promote, advertise, or attend an event where drivers are laying drag, or illegally street racing." 

"Laying drag and illegal street racing would also be considered "high and aggravated misdemeanors," with fines of up to $2,500 and cars would be impounded at the driver's expense until any legal case is resolved."

Governor Brian Kemp tweeted, "drag racing is a plague on the city."

Homeowners say drag racing has become all too common in their residential areas, and are worried about their neighborhood safety.

The Atlanta Police Department is doing everything they can to combat the issue. They released a statement, "We are aware of the ongoing issue with street racers in our city and will not tolerate it. We will use additional resources when needed and will continue to proactively monitor the areas of concern for reckless drivers as well as issue traffic citations, impound vehicles and make arrests accordingly."

Contact an Attorney today

If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident as a result of reckless driving, contact us today. At personal injury law firm, Schneider Hammers, our team of attorneys have exceptional knowledge in this area of law, and here are some ways we can assist you:

• Our dedicated car accident attorneys can work with insurance companies on your behalf.

• Our attorneys provide guidance, advice and can help answer all the questions that Google can't.

• Our attorneys can contact local law enforcement and retrieve important information that could help your case including evidence, testimonies, witnesses and more. 

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a car accident you most likely have incurred costly expenses such as medical bills, repairing property damage, and/or loss of income. You are entitled to compensation from the at-fault parties and Schneider Hammers is here to help. We will work diligently to make sure the careless drivers are held accountable for their actions.

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