Have you ever seen a high-speed police chase? Whether you’ve seen it just in movies or witnessed it in real life, police chases are often filled with adrenaline and suspense. However, you probably don’t know that sometimes, these pursuits end in tragic car accidents, raising the critical question: who is liable in such situations?
Details of the crash
In August, a police chase unfolded in Plainfield, Indiana. According to a crash report, the chase involved a suspect, Bryan Goodmon, and a Plainfield Police Department (PPD) officer. The pursuit ended tragically at the U.S. Highway 40 and Smith Road intersection. The PPD officer, driving at high speeds with emergency lights and sirens activated, collided with a 2009 Ford Fusion occupied by 78-year-old Barbara Williams and 79-year-old Bennie Williams. The couple was attempting to turn left when the crash occurred.
The crash report indicated that the officer was driving at 100 mph just seconds before the collision and had reduced speed to approximately 57 mph at the time of impact. Despite having emergency lights and sirens on, witnesses reported not hearing the siren, likely due to the police car’s high speed.
Possible liability
Determining liability in police car crashes can be complex. Generally, police officers are granted certain immunities when performing their duties, especially during pursuits. However, they are still required to act with due regard for the safety of others.
Liability can also extend to the suspect being pursued. If the suspect’s actions directly lead to a dangerous situation, they may be held responsible for any resulting damages or injuries. In this case, Bryan Goodmon, the suspect, could face charges related to the deaths of the elderly victims of the car crash.
So, while police officers must protect and serve, they must also ensure public safety during high-speed pursuits. Determining liability in these cases requires careful examination of the circumstances and actions of all parties involved.
If you or a loved one are involved in a police car crash, seeking legal counsel is recommended. An experienced attorney can help you find out who is ultimately liable for such an accident and ensure that you receive appropriate compensation.