Police chases in Smyrna can endanger many people. The suspect, officers, or innocent bystanders may suffer injuries or deaths. If you or a loved one were victims, a Smyrna car accident lawyer can help.
You should not have to suffer for someone else’s negligence. Officers must follow procedures to avoid harming others. Unfortunately, no one is guaranteed safe during a police pursuit.
At John Foy & Associates, we can help. With over 20 years of experience, we know what to do. Call us today to learn your legal options after a police chase accident. Dial (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for a FREE, no-risk consultation.
Police Chases Cause Too Many Injuries in Smyrna
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS):
- Police pursuits caused about one death per day from 1996 to 2015.
- There were an estimated 68,000 police chases in 2012.
- In areas with less than 10,000 people, only four percent of local police and 10% of sheriffs’ offices
- There were eight vehicle chases per 100 local officers in 2012.
- There were nine chases per 100 sheriffs’ officers in 2012.
The police need to use proper judgment during a chase. If the suspect committed a minor offense, the chase’s danger outweighs the need to catch the person. Only serious crimes seem dire enough to begin a dangerous pursuit.
Police departments should have strict policies to protect others during a police chase. They must only start pursuits when completely necessary. Otherwise, innocent people can become injured or killed.
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Frequent Police Chase Accident Injuries
Since police chases happen at high speeds, the injuries can be severe. Common injuries from police pursuits include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Paralysis
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Loss of limb
- Internal organ damage
- Permanent disabilities
- Injuries that cause death
These injuries can cause enormous costs. Victims must face costly medical bills, lost wages, and more. Many have to live with permanent disabilities or lost loved ones.
You shouldn’t have to bear the costs of a police chase accident. If you or a loved one were victims, an experienced lawyer can help. You could be entitled to compensation for your costs.
At John Foy & Associates, we can help you build a strong case. Our attorneys have over 20 years of experience. Plus, we do not charge a fee unless we win your case. To get a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
How the Law Addresses Police Chases in Georgia
We’ve all seen and heard first responders driving down local roads. It’s hard to miss the blaring sirens and bright, flashing lights. All drivers in Smyrna must be careful when an emergency vehicle approaches.
First responders must also be careful when doing their jobs. According to Georgia Code Section 40-6-6, officers can do the following when pursuing a suspect:
- Park or stand
- Run a red light or stop sign (only after slowing down enough to be safe)
- Exceed the speed limit (as long as they do not endanger lives or property)
- Disregard traffic laws about driving or turning in a specific direction
The above exceptions only apply when the vehicle is using its official lights and sirens. Also, the driver must still drive with regard for others’ safety. Unfortunately, the law does not always prevent accidents from happening.
If you suffered injuries from a police chase, contact a lawyer. Your lawyer can examine the accident and who was responsible. They’ll also look to see if the pursuit was justified and the officer’s level of care.
Police chase policies also vary by location. For example, Atlanta police began a zero-chase system in January 2020. Other cities allow chases under certain conditions. Some areas do not have chase policies in place, which is a problem.
Police Officers’ Duty of Care in Smyrna
When a police officer is chasing a suspect, the officer has a duty of care. If the suspect causes injuries or damages property, the police department does not hold liability. However, the department could be liable if there was a “reckless disregard” for procedures.
Officers must only start a chase when it’s justified. If the officer does not follow policy, the department could be responsible for the damages. You will need help from an experienced lawyer to show liability.
Police officers must avoid harm to others if they pursue a suspect. If you or a loved one suffered injuries from a police chase, you have rights. Contact John Foy & Associates today to learn your options.
Common Police Chase Victims in Smyrna
Anyone can suffer injuries during a police pursuit. The suspect’s car could hit and harm anyone, including:
- Other drivers
- Pedestrians
- Motorcyclists
- Bicycles
- Car passengers
These accidents are often devastating. Severe pursuits tend to happen a high-speeds. Crashes that occur at excessive speeds cause severe injuries or deaths.
You could be entitled to compensation for your accident damages. The fleeing suspect or the police could be responsible for your costs. It’s essential to know your financial compensation options.
Talk to a lawyer today if a police chase caused your car accident. An experienced lawyer can help you bring a strong case against the responsible party. You should not have to pay for the costs of someone else’s mistakes.
Talk to a Smyrna Car Accident Caused by Police Chase Lawyer for Free Today
At John Foy & Associates, we handle police chase cases throughout Georgia. If a pursuit left you injured in Smyrna, reach out today. With over 20 years of experience, we know what it takes to win cases.
Working with us is risk-free for you because:
- We do not charge a fee unless we win your case.
- There are no upfront or out-of-pocket costs.
- The consultation is 100% FREE to you.
Our number one goal is getting you full compensation. We’ll fight for the financial recovery you deserve. You should be able to cover your costs so that you can begin to move on.
We’ll handle the legal side of things while you focus on healing. To get a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
