Restricting vehicle pursuits

The Problem

Police chases can be extremely dangerous. On average, at least one American dies every day as a result of a police vehicle pursuit, many of these mere bystanders.

Many pursuits are also unnecessary. Overwhelmingly, despite their danger to motorists, pedestrians, and officers, these chases begin over relatively minor issues such as a low-level traffic infraction or non-violent misdemeanor, not any kind of violent crime. Disproportionately, those injured and killed from vehicle pursuits are Black.

The Solution

The Policing Project’s model statute provides clear rules to prevent unnecessary police chases and make those that do occur safer. It limits pursuits to violent felonies and especially dangerous driving offenses, and only permits pursuits if the danger posed by the pursuit is less than that of allowing a suspect to escape. It further places guardrails on pursuits through measures such as supervisor involvement and the prohibition of especially high-risk tactics. Finally, it includes data collection and transparency measures that promote accountability and public awareness of vehicle pursuits.

Contact us at legislation@policingproject.org for more information on the model statute, legislative review or drafting assistance, or other research and advocacy support on restricting vehicle pursuits.

Legislative Testimonies