Florida Police Car Chase Injury Lawyer

Injured in a Police Chase in Tampa? Know Your Rights

High-speed police chases are rare, but when they happen, they can lead to devastating injuries for innocent bystanders. If you or a loved one has been hurt as a result of a police pursuit, it’s crucial to understand your legal options. In Florida, there are specific circumstances under which law enforcement can be held responsible for injuries caused during a chase.

The answer is: sometimes. A key case, City of Pinellas Park v. Brown, set the precedent that police officers can be sued when their reckless actions contribute to an accident during a pursuit. This means that if law enforcement engages in a high-speed chase that creates a dangerous situation, they may be held liable for resulting injuries.

When is the Police Department Responsible?

• Reckless Conduct – If officers continue a pursuit despite clear risks, such as heavy traffic or a non-violent offense.
• Violation of Protocol – If officers ignore department policies, such as orders to stop the chase.
• Creation of a ‘Zone of Risk’ – If their pursuit significantly increases the danger to innocent drivers, motorcyclists, or pedestrians.

While the person being chased is not in a position to sue, innocent bystanders injured in the chaos may have a valid legal claim. Examples include:

• A motorist hit by a suspect fleeing police.
• A pedestrian injured in a collision caused by a high-speed chase.
• A motorcyclist caught in the aftermath of a police pursuit.

Police chases often result in severe injuries due to high speeds and reckless driving. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from head trauma in crashes.
• Spinal cord injuries that can cause paralysis or long-term disability.
• Broken bones and fractures due to the force of impact.
• Internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent but require urgent medical attention.
• Fatalities—unfortunately, some victims do not survive these violent accidents.

If you or a loved one has sustained any of these injuries in a police chase accident, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately and consult with a car chase injury lawyer in Florida to understand your legal options.

Filing a claim after being injured in a police pursuit requires several steps:

1. Gather Evidence – Collect accident reports, witness statements, and any available dashcam or surveillance footage.
2. Seek Medical Treatment – Even if injuries seem minor, getting a medical evaluation is essential for your health and legal case.
3. Determine Liability – Identify whether the pursuing officers, the suspect, or both were responsible for the crash.
4. File an Insurance Claim – Depending on the situation, you may need to file claims against multiple parties, including the suspect’s insurer and potentially the police department.
5. Consult a Tampa police chase injury lawyer – A car chase injury lawyer with experience in police chase injury cases can help you navigate the complex legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a police chase accident, you don’t have to face the legal system alone. These cases are complex, but with the right legal representation, you may be able to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact a Florida police chase injury lawyer to explore your legal options today.