What Does "Doing Donuts" Mean? (with Pictures) - WikiMotors

One shining example of reckless driving is a maneuver known as doing donuts, sometimes called turfing a yard or driving donuts. This involves driving a car in a tight circle while continuing to accelerate. The result is a series of circular ruts or skid marks carved out of a lawn or street surface. These little circles of wanton destruction are the "donuts" of the doing donuts maneuver.

Some crazy drivers feel the urge to do donuts whenever presented with a open patch of roadway, an empty parking lot or a section of flat lawn. They will first drive into the middle of the doomed property and turn sharply to the left or right as they accelerate. The shift in momentum generally swings the rear of the car around to the front, creating the circular divots or skid marks. As the driver continues to drive in circles, the divots become even more pronounced. A second or third donut may be attempted before driving out of the location.

Parking lots are especially popular locations for doing donuts without malice aforethought. The lack of innocent bystanders, the openness of the terrain and the loose surface gravel all make it easier for reckless drivers to perform the maneuver without losing control or causing major damage. Snow-covered parking lots awaiting the arrival of a snow plow can also be very popular places for doing donuts in the wintertime.

For drivers with malicious intent, however, a rival's football stadium or personal home may be the ideal place to perform destructive donuts. The effect of dozens of tight circles being carved into the turf can be very difficult to repair. Doing donuts or "turfing" a private yard or public property is considered to be an act of vandalism, and the offending driver could also face other charges of reckless driving and public endangerment.

The act of doing donuts with a privately owned vehicle in an approved location is not strictly illegal, but it can seriously damage the car's suspension, alignment and steering system if overdone. A one-time celebratory donut on the infield of a professional racetrack can be exciting to watch, but performing it in real life should only be attempted sparingly, if at all.