No one expects to become involved in a police chase, although these incidents may unfold suddenly on busy roads and intersections. The fleeing driver may ignore traffic signals, speed through neighborhoods, or collide with nearby vehicles while attempting to escape law enforcement. When innocent motorists suffer injuries or vehicle damage during these pursuits, questions arise about insurance coverage, police liability, and their legal rights after the car accident.
What Injuries Commonly Occur During Police Chase Crashes?
Police chase crashes may cause broken bones, head injuries, spinal injuries, internal injuries, and emotional trauma. High-speed collisions often create severe vehicle damage because fleeing drivers frequently ignore traffic signals and traffic flow. Some injuries may require long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Can I File an Insurance Claim After a Police Chase?
Yes, through your own insurance policy or against the fleeing driver’s insurance coverage – if they have it. Medical payments, collision coverage, and uninsured motorist benefits may become important after these crashes.
Who May Be Responsible for Damages After a Police Chase?
Responsibility depends on how the crash occurred and whether the police officers followed proper pursuit procedures. In many cases, the fleeing driver remains legally responsible for injuries and property damage. However, government agencies may sometimes face claims if officers acted recklessly during the pursuit.
Can Police Departments Be Held Liable for Chase Accidents?
Police departments may face liability claims in limited situations involving reckless conduct or pursuit policy violations. Courts may examine whether the officers acted reasonably based on public safety concerns and the seriousness of the suspected crime. However, government immunity laws may affect these claims.
What Evidence May Help After a Police Chase Accident?
Police reports, dash camera footage, witness statements, medical records, and traffic camera footage may help support claims after pursuit-related crashes. Photographs showing vehicle damage and road conditions may also become important evidence. Since police agencies often conduct internal reviews after pursuits, additional evidence may become available later.
Do Pennsylvania Police Departments Follow Pursuit Policies?
Yes, Pennsylvania police departments generally maintain pursuit policies that guide officers during high-speed chases. The policies address public safety risks, traffic conditions, weather, and the seriousness of suspected crimes. In Delaware County and nearby Pennsylvania communities, the pursuit policies may differ between local agencies.
Can Passengers Injured During Police Chases Seek Compensation?
Passengers injured during police chase crashes may pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. The claims may implicate the fleeing driver, insurance companies, or potentially government entities, depending on the facts. Passenger claims often differ from driver claims because passengers rarely contribute to collisions.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania generally applies a two-year “statute of limitations” for personal injury lawsuits arising from vehicle crashes, but claims involving government agencies may involve additional notice requirements and shorter deadlines. We recommend consulting with a car accident lawyer immediately following a crash to avoid missing your chance to pursue fair compensation.
Can Police Chase Crashes Lead to Wrongful Death Claims?
Yes, fatal police chase crashes may result in “wrongful death” claims when negligent or reckless actions contribute to deadly collisions. Families may pursue compensation involving medical expenses, funeral costs, and financial losses. Liability may depend on the actions of fleeing drivers, police officers, or other involved parties.
Was Your Car Hit in a Police Chase? Our Skilled Media Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Will Fight to Get You the Compensation You Deserve
If your car was hit by a police vehicle, contact our Media car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. to learn about your legal options. For an initial consultation, call 610-565-3700 or complete our online form. With office locations in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we proudly serve clients in the surrounding areas.