Street Takeovers and Sideshows in Public Streets

SOURCE www.npr.org
Street takeovers involving impromptu events where drivers show off their cars by doing burn-outs and donuts in public streets have grown during the pandemic. While participants see it as a show of show-offs, the events disrupt traffic, disturb neighbors, and endanger lives. Police have launched operations to address the issue, with some jurisdictions implementing harsher penalties and impounding vehicles. Some suggest treating sideshows as a nascent motorsport to regulate and ensure safety for participants.

Key Points

  • Growing phenomenon of street takeovers during the pandemic
  • Participants showcase souped-up cars and skills through burn-outs and donuts
  • Police crackdowns and operations launched to address the issue
  • Suggestions to regulate sideshows as a nascent motorsport for safety

Pros

  • Exciting activity for participants, providing adrenaline rush and sense of community

Cons

  • Disrupt traffic, disturb neighbors, and endanger lives
  • May lead to accidents and fatalities
  • Can provoke confrontations with law enforcement