What must officers have to use a police vehicle in a pursuit?

To use a police vehicle in a pursuit, officers must establish probable cause of a serious crime. This means that they must have reasonable grounds to believe that a suspect is committing or has committed a significant offense that justifies the pursuit. This legal standard helps ensure that pursuits are conducted under appropriate circumstances where the nature and severity of the alleged crime warrant the risk and resource allocation involved in a high-speed chase.

The necessity of having probable cause lies in the responsibility and judgment of law enforcement officers to engage in pursuits only when the situation justifies it. This requirement aims to balance the enforcement of the law with public safety, as pursuits can pose dangers to both officers and the public. Implementing this standard helps maintain accountability and directs law enforcement agencies to prioritize safety and strategy when responding to crimes in progress.