United Future

The risk and nuisance caused by “boy-racers” and by associated individuals and groups are serious problems, and the police must have powers and procedures that effectively limit and control the risk and nuisance. But...

Crushing cars that are used by “boy-racers” is a sensational and extreme measure. It is likely that a small number of car owners will be affected disproportionately in order to create a deterrence to others that they are not responsible for. While the deterrence may be effective it is unfair to those few who are selected as examples for them to bear so much of the cost of creating this deterrent.

Crushing cars is destructive of valuable assets. The cars can be removed from irresponsible owners without destroying them. They should be disposed of in a way which maximizes their value. They might be sold to responsible owners who should be responsible and accountable for any work required to bring them into conformance with requirements if they are to be used on public roads or highways.

Destroying cars is sensational and provocative and it is more likely to cause escalation of violence, aggression and anti-social behaviour than it is to cause people to be more law abiding and considerate of their fellow citizens.

The law should require that vehicles used on public roads and highways and the manner in which they are used are safe and do not cause unreasonable risk or disturbance. The power and noise of vehicles should be limited and exceptional licensing and training should be required to drive vehicles with high power. Dangerous driving should be strictly prohibited, including all racing on public roads and highways without a permit.

The police should be able to suspend licenses and remove vehicles from drivers who are driving illegal vehicles, driving without a required license, driving dangerously or creating a public nuisance. Vehicles should be removed temporarily or permanently according to the nature of the offense.

The government should encourage, support and develop more appropriate venues for car enthusiasts to gather and enjoy themselves. The interest in racing will not go away. If there is no reasonable and affordable alternative to illegal street racing the illegal racing will continue.