A mob of spectators and several cars that arrive in a coordinated manner at specific street intersections, or even interstates to takeover the road is called an illegal street takeover. They block traffic in order to speed and show off dangerous stunts like donuts and drifting; turning and screeching through intersections, spinning dangerously close to the cheering fans. The stunts are often filmed by onlookers and posted on social media which generates even more interest in the illegal activity.

Illegal street takeovers started in Los Angeles but have spread around the globe despite the danger. Drivers spinning at the edge of control and spectators standing within inches of these smoking cars put themselves at risk because they love the adrenaline rush. Not only are they risking arrest, damage to public property and possibly to their own cars, but drivers and spectators are risking their lives.

These takeovers are happening weekly, popping up throughout the city. The LAPD and the City Council's office have tried everything they can to stop all the illegal accidents from happening including installing speed bumps at over 20 popular meetup spots. Despite many complaints from neighbors to the city, the takeovers aren't slowing down, “When [police] do arrive, it’s 15 minutes too late,” when the crowds have already dispersed and gone home" one neighbor argued.

Some of the takeovers include party like atmospheres.  Spectators show up with fireworks and set them off without proper safety precautions. These explosives set off car alarms all around the event. They vandalize property, steal, and pollute the neighborhoods with the loud music and sound of revving engines and burning rubber. Local residents are infuriated by the noise with one complaining, "I live in the neighborhood and I can hear it at night."

Most concerning is the lack of safety for onlookers. Often times out of control cars collide with spectating groups seriously injuring fans and regularly sending them to local hospitals. Fans put their lives at risk in order to capture video of the spinning cars and perhaps for the adrenaline rush of being so close to danger.