What should you avoid when pursuing a suspect vehicle?

When pursuing a suspect vehicle, avoiding actions that could compromise safety is paramount. Continuing into oncoming traffic on a divided roadway is hazardous not only for the law enforcement officer but also for other road users. Engaging in such behavior increases the risk of a head-on collision, which could result in serious injury or fatalities. Law enforcement agencies prioritize the safety of the public and the officers involved, and maintaining control over the pursuit situation is crucial.

Choices regarding high-speed pursuits, using lights and sirens, and pursuing in bad weather conditions may present challenges, but they can be conducted with certain precautions and protocols in place. For instance, many jurisdictions have guidelines that allow high-speed pursuits when the situation necessitates it, as well as established protocols for the use of lights and sirens to warn other drivers. Weather conditions can complicate a pursuit, yet officers can remain in communication with dispatch and potentially monitor the situation from a safe distance rather than engage directly.