NCJ Number
108035
Date Published
1986
Length
29 pages
Annotation
This paper provides background information on police high speed pursuits and minimum guidelines that can be incorporated into Ohio police policies and procedures.
Abstract
Newspaper clippings highlight both the advantages and dangers of high speed pursuits. Sections of the Ohio Revised Code dealing with official immunity, negligence, and liability and applicable traffic law are provided, together with case law defining such key words as emergency call, willful or wanton misconduct, and due care for the safety of others. Factors to be considered in assuring the safe pursuit of another vehicle in a high speed chase then are examined. These include condition of the police cruiser, driver's ability to operate it in a safe manner, condition of the roadway, seriousness of the alleged offense, consequences of the officer's action, and safety of all persons (violator, officer, and public). Potential pitfalls of the Ohio Revised Code are noted, and use of force in a moving vehicle is discussed. State statutes outlining penalties for willfully eluding police also are provided, and case summaries of decisions involving pursuits in other States are presented. Areas to be covered in departmental pursuit policies are outlined; specific guidelines are provided for communications, dispatcher and supervisor responsibility, firearms, ramming, roadblocks, tactics, and out-of-State pursuits.