Police Chase Lawsuits
Unfortunately, there are many times when police officers ignore pursuit protocols and continue chasing suspects despite the fact that innocent bystanders can potentially be harmed. When law enforcement officials chase suspects accused of alleged criminal activity, though, they cannot do so with impunity. Police officers are not allowed to drive in a reckless manner when they are chasing suspects. When they do, they can hurt innocent people.
In a police chase, the people who can generally be found at fault include:
- The fleeing suspect – Every motorist owes a duty of care to others on the roadway, and reckless driving behavior during a car chase can be considered a breach of that duty, such as if they collided with another vehicle or otherwise caused an injury due to their driving behaviors.
- Police officers – If it can be shown that the police officers engaged in willful or wanton negligence, or that the pursuit should have been disengaged or terminated because there was too much risk to other people involved, the officers could be held liable for the consequences.
- Governmental employers and municipalities – A governmental agency or municipality employing the police officers responsible for the chase could be held liable.
The law regarding liability for officers involved in police chases is nuanced and is determined on a case-by-case basis. In general, law enforcement officers are not responsible for injuries that occur to third parties if those injuries occur while they are performing their duties. However, police officers can be held liable in Illinois if it can be proven that the officer was:
- Acting in an intentional, willful or wanton negligent, or reckless manner
- Showing an utter indifference to or conscious disregard for the safety of others
Because of the rise in potential liability issues regarding car chases, many police departments throughout the state of Illinois have issued guidelines regarding police pursuits. As a result, when the risks to human life or property begin to outweigh the benefits of the capture of a suspect, officers should refrain from or disengage from pursuits.
Discuss Your Case With Foutris Law Office, Ltd. Today
Although holding the police responsible for causing an injury during a high-speed chase can be difficult, our Chicago police chase attorney understands what it takes to protect the rights and interests of those who have been wrongfully injured in a police pursuit. Let us review your case immediately to help you determine your next legal options.
Contact us today to speak with an experienced civil rights attorney.
