Let me answer a few of the questions posted - if it were me behind the wheel and a ricer challenged me, I would stick to my guns - that I've talked to my son about. Racing is great if it's done the right way on the track. I'm sure we'll all agree - s*** happens - and too many unexpected things can happen like a goose taking a walk on the wild side.
I would not race him on any residential road period. Now if we were on an open road highway and the challenge occured - I would punch it to see who's got it. I've also explained to my son that if he's going to punch it - and I surely expected him to - take it on the highway, where these unexpected things are greatly reduced.
My son has a job, pays his own insurance. No matter what happens to any of my kids - taking words from an ole country song - "A dad's love will never end" and both my wife and I fully intend to support him in court. I must say for a 16/17-year old he's pretty responsible and does have a good head on his shoulders. Looking over the accident scene and hearing what happened from both drivers - my son did a great job holding tough with the stang.
I have been working him with the car, shifting handling etc, so I have to say it's more advanced in driving skills than other 16-year olds. Man - he was backing up his grandfathers tractor into the storage shed- with a tow cart behind it at the age of 7-8. I know many adults today that can't back up a trailer period.
I've looked at the laws in my state and looks like a first offense will not cause him to lose his license for any period of time. He will have to take a driver improvement course. I have also encouraged my son to do the research and find out what the laws are to be prepared for the court day.
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