When the police chase a suspect in Dunwoody, innocent drivers and bystanders often get hurt. Police officers have a responsibility to reduce harm to others when pursuing someone. If you or a loved one were hurt during a police chase, you might be entitled to compensation.
Police chases usually happen at high speeds, and the conditions are dangerous. Everyone on the road is at risk during the pursuit. Sadly, many innocent drivers suffer injuries or die as a result.
A Dunwoody police chase lawyer can help determine who is responsible for the accident and damages. Contact John Foy & Associates today for more information—and a free consultation. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
Police Chases Are Often Unnecessary
Most people assume a police chase means the suspect committed a serious crime. However, research shows otherwise.
According to Pursuit Safety, most drivers flee for small offenses like not having a driver’s license. The damage from the police chase is often much worse than what the suspect is running from. Other reasons people flee include:
- Shoplifting
- Suspended license
- Stolen cars
- Speeding
- Lack of insurance or registration
- Broken taillight
A driver might run from the police out of fear, even if their offense was minor. Others have regular run-ins with officers, which means the police can catch them outside of a car.
The police have a responsibility to weigh the pros and cons of starting a chase. Fleeing suspects are being careless and not thinking of others. At the same time, the police have a duty to protect innocent victims.
Many times, it makes very little sense for officers to start a high-speed chase. During the chase, many innocent people can become injured or killed.
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Determining Liability
So, who is responsible if you or a loved one were injured during a police chase? If you deserve compensation, do you come after the suspect or the police—or both?
When the Suspect Is Liable
Suspects rarely think about others during a police chase. Pursuits become reckless quickly, which can lead to many injuries.
A suspect could be liable for your injuries and damages. Common situations include:
- Causing property damage to your vehicle
- Hitting another driver and causing severe injuries
- Killing or seriously injuring a pedestrian
- Causing emotional distress for an injury victim
Talk to a lawyer about how the accident has affected you. Your lawyer can determine if the suspect is responsible for your damages. You might be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim or lawsuit.
When the Police Are Liable
You usually can’t hold a police officer liable for police chase accidents. If an officer was acting within their job scope, they are typically protected from legal action. However, there are exceptions.
The police could be liable if:
- An officer keeps chasing after a supervisor told them to stop
- The risk of a chase outweighs the benefits
- The officer causes injuries or deaths
- An officer uses a weapon inappropriately
Every police chase accident is unique. There are only a few ways the police are liable for a chase, but it can happen. Know your options by talking to an experienced car accident lawyer today.
Our police chase lawyers at John Foy & Associates know what to do. We’ll look at your case and determine your legal options. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for a free consultation.
Police Chase Laws
Georgia Code § 40-6-6 addresses the rules for first responders, including police officers. When the police are pursuing a suspect, they can:
- Run red lights or stop signs (only after slowing down as needed for safety)
- Go above the maximum speed limit (as long as they don’t endanger lives or property)
- Disregard movement- or turning-related laws
In most cases, someone can’t hold a police officer legally responsible for injuries, deaths, or property damage during a police chase. There is one big exception, though.
Suppose the officer acted with “reckless disregard for proper law enforcement procedures” when starting or continuing the chase. In that case, the police officer may be liable for the damage.
A Police Chase Lawyer Can Help
A lawyer can determine who is responsible for your accident. Police chases are complicated, especially on the legal side. Don’t try to handle your case alone. Talk to a lawyer who can uncover the truth and help you seek compensation.
Damages You Might Recover
Your lawyer will help you build a case to recover your costs. You shouldn’t have to pay for someone else’s poor mistakes. Here are some damages you might recover.
Medical Bills
Medical costs add up quickly. If you suffered injuries at all, you will need care. Medical expenses can include:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Doctor bills
- Hospital stays
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy
See a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Even if you feel okay, have a doctor check you for all injuries. Also, keep track of all bills and other evidence of your treatment.
Your lawyer will determine your total medical costs to include in your claim.
Lost Wages
Your injuries might prevent you from missing work. If so, you can claim lost wages. You might be entitled to more if your injuries keep you from going back to work or working less.
Vehicle Damage
Police chases can cause severe damage to vehicles or other property. You can include any property damage from the accident in your case.
Pain and Suffering
Not all damages are financial. You could have emotional trauma or mental anguish from the accident. Talk to your lawyer about the crash and your injuries have affected you.
Wrongful Death
Tragically, police chases can lead to lost lives. If you lost a loved one, you might have a wrongful death claim. You could seek compensation for damages like:
- Medical costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship
- Funeral and burial costs
Talk to a Dunwoody Police Chase Lawyer for Free Today
Our Dunwoody police chase lawyers can help if you were injured because of a police pursuit. We have helped countless injury victims over 20-plus years. Contact us today to learn more.
Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get your free consultation today.
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