North Carolina has taken action and wants to toughen even further the consequences and penalties against drivers who engage in reckless driving, with the aim of addressing this problem that has claimed so many lives. The general statutes of North Carolina do not understand reckless driving as a single behavior, but rather link driving with carelessness and disregard, driving at a speed higher than estimated that endangers the safety of people nearby, ignoring red lights or stop signs, aggressive lane changes, among others.
Following the tragic accident that involved the death of a six-year-old child as a result of another driver’s reckless driving, the Liam Law (H246) was established, which was introduced to combat street racing and careless driving. This law was introduced in February 2025 and came into effect this December, and with it, drivers accused of reckless driving faced a Class 1 misdemeanor, potentially facing 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Additionally, this law also defines street racing as a Class H offense and a Class G offense for those who cause the death of another person.
Reckless driving
Unfortunately, reckless driving is a behavior present on all roads in the country, and it is also responsible for numerous deaths. That is why the State of North Carolina has sought to toughen the laws and consequences for those drivers who engage in this type of dangerous and irresponsible behavior. While it is true that reckless driving cannot be limited to a single behavior, it encompasses many actions. According to the general statutes of North Carolina, reckless driving is defined as:
- “Any person who drives a vehicle on a highway or in any public traffic area with carelessness and disregard, ignoring the rights or safety of others, shall be guilty of reckless driving”
- “Any person who drives a vehicle on a roadway or any public vehicle area without due caution and at a speed or in a manner that endangers or may endanger any person or property shall be guilty of reckless driving”.
That is, such behaviors may include ignoring red lights and stop signs, speeding, unsafe passing, aggressive lane changes, or overtaking, among others.
Liam Law
In 2021, a street racing accident in North Carolina claimed the life of Liam Lagunas, a six-year-old boy. Following this tragic event, a new law inspired by the accident was proposed, aiming to toughen penalties for reckless driving, illegal racing, and hit-and-run incidents that result in serious injury or death. The Liam Law (H246) was passed in February 2025 and came into effect in December, but it is being updated to further ensure the protection of those affected. This law classifies drivers who engage in reckless driving as committing a Class 1 misdemeanor, which can mean 60 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000.
Modifications
With the new modifications, the law will consider street racing a Class H offense, and a Class G offense in cases resulting in death, including both longer jail sentences and a permanent criminal record. Regarding hit-and-run offenses, they can also range from a Class H felony to a Class 1 misdemeanor. In any case, the periods for driver’s license revocation are increasing from one to four years, with the possibility of lifetime revocation in the most serious cases.
Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of the Liam Law?
Toughen the penalties for reckless driving, illegal racing, and hit-and-run incidents that result in serious injury or death, raising the charges to felonies and increasing license revocations to deter dangerous drivers.
Has it already come into effect?
Yes, the law went into effect in North Carolina this December and is being modified to further toughen the penalties and consequences.