Police chases happen unexpectedly and often result in high rates of speed. Sometimes, innocent bystanders get caught in the chase and end up suffering injuries and damages.
When a driver is attempting to get away from the police, they have no regard for the law or the innocent people who get in their way. When a crash occurs because of this blatant disregard for human life, the at-fault driver must be held accountable.
It is also important to note that the police may also be liable for such an accident. If the actions of the police officer were reckless or violated their department policy, the office may be held liable for any resulting damages.
Our Atlanta police chase accident attorneys may be able to assist you if you have suffered an injury as an innocent bystander of a police chase. Metro Atlanta Law Group is poised to perform a thorough investigation into your crash.
We will work to hold all liable parties responsible and will make sure you receive a fair outcome. Call us right away for your free consultation appointment to get started.
A Fleeing Suspect Must Be Held Accountable For Damages
It is against the law in Georgia for a suspect to flee from the police. Every driver in the state of Georgia has a duty of care to other drivers. They must not place other drivers at risk.
Because the suspect is already breaking the law by fleeing from the police, it stands to reason they will break many others. The total disregard of innocent bystanders often causes a fleeing suspect to be charged with multiple crimes.
Unfortunately, the actions of one lawless driver can have negative impacts on many people. The reckless behaviors of a fleeing driver can cause harm or even death to other drivers on the road, parked drivers, and even pedestrians.
Without a doubt, fleeing drivers must be held accountable for the damages they cause. Regrettably, insurance companies sometimes attempt to deny insurance claims because the events occurred due to illegal activity.
Because insurance companies often deny these claims, injured victims may need to demand compensation from both the driver and officer involved. We are here to help you every step of the way!
Is the Police Department Liable?
A police officer may share in the responsibility of your losses. While it is clear fleeing from the police is against the law and dangerous, it is just as risky for police offers to follow suit.
Deputies must weigh the dangers to innocent bystanders and the fleeing suspect before initiating a chase. Police dGeepartments in the Atlanta area follow different protocols.
In downtown Atlanta, officers announced in 2020 they would no longer chase fleeing suspects. After one of the most violent years in many decades, the city reversed this decision in January of 2021.
When an officer is considering whether they should pursue a fleeing vehicle, they must make a judgment call according to the following.
The offense and what it entails
The weather conditions
The time of day
The population density in the location
The possible safety concerns
The officer’s familiarity with the location
Similar rules are followed by all departments in surrounding Georgia counties. Allow us to review your police chase crash injury case today.
Special Rules Apply to Holding Police Officers Responsible
It is more complex to pursue a state or county official than a private citizen, but it is certainly not impossible. According to Georgia Code ยง 36-11-1, an Ante Litem notice must be given to the police officer.
This notice must be highly specific and delivered within six months of the date of the incident. As of 2014, the requirements for the Ante Litem notice became stricter.
While the requirement of the Ante Litem notice is meant to streamline getting compensation to the injured victim, it places the victim in a stressful situation. They must pursue the police officer far quicker than a private citizen.
Because of the complexities of police chase crashes, we urge you to get help from an expert attorney. We will help you demand fair payment from the police department for their role in the reckless chase that resulted in your injuries.
We Fight for Fair Compensation
All car accident claims require injured victims to receive fair compensation so any wrongs can be righted. You may receive compensation for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and more.
You may also deserve payments for your loss of quality of life. Our Atlanta police chase accident attorney will evaluate how the crash has impacted your life. We will demand fair payments from anyone who played a role in your accident.
Metro Atlanta Law Group will help you hold all responsible parties accountable for their actions. Call us right away to schedule your free consultation appointment. We will be here for you every step of the way!
Is the Fleeing Driver Responsible?
In a police chase crash, there are so many factors involved that it can be confusing for victims to seek fair compensation. You should understand any driver who causes an accident must compensate all injured victims.
The law is clear that drivers are held to this same standard in the event of a police chase. We will get to the bottom of your claim and find out who can be held liable and how much money you can pursue for your damages.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you have been injured in a police chase crash, call Metro Atlanta Law Group immediately. Our police chase crash team is standing by to schedule your free consultation appointment.
Because you must send an Ante Litem notice within six months of the date of the accident, time is of the essence. Do not wait too long and forfeit your rights to compensation.
Call us right away to get started. We will protect your rights and best interests while we work to get you the money you deserve!
