NCJ Number
124632
Date Published
1990
Length
185 pages
Annotation
After examining the conceptual framework, legal issues, and prior research on police pursuits, this study examines the nature and results of pursuit-driving incidents in Dade County, Fla., for 1985, 1986, and 1987.
Abstract
A review of the conceptual framework for a policy of police pursuit driving identifies the variables that must be assessed and weighted in constructing the parameters for an appropriate policy for pursuit driving. The variables are categorized under officers' background and preparation and knowledge of the incident, area, and conditions. A chapter on the legal issues associated with pursuit driving concludes that many issues addressed by the courts can be resolved most appropriately by social science research. The study of pursuit-driving incidents in Dade County over the 3 years encompassed 952 pursuits. Findings indicate that the number of police pursuits was low; they were of short duration and involved relatively slow speeds; and the majority of pursuits ended without serious personal injury, property damage, or a traffic accident. The study examines factors in the pursuit policies that contributed to these outcomes. Appended supplementary material, 50-item selected bibliography.