Pursuits involving police motorcycles, non pursuit-rated police vehicles, vehicles not equipped with overhead emergency lights, or unmarked police vehicles expose personnel to an increased possibility of injury and are generally prohibited. Personnel driving these vehicles shall carefully weigh all options before initiating or entering into a pursuit. Supervisors shall exercise prudent judgment in allowing their involvement to continue, and be prepared to explain why the risks were outweighed by the benefits of such vehicles’ involvement.
Manufacturers of police vehicles designate some models as “pursuit rated.” Such a rating indicates the manufacturer certifies the vehicle to be generally suitable for high-speed police pursuits. Authorized emergency vehicles that are not “pursuit rated,” including various SUV’s, vans, pick up trucks and service vehicles shall not be used during a pursuit except under the most compelling circumstances and shall not be driven beyond the vehicle’s normal performance capabilities. Personnel initiating a pursuit using a vehicle that is not pursuit-rated shall immediately advise the Watch Commander so that a pursuit-rated vehicle can be dispatched to replace them.
Deputy personnel riding motorcycles or driving vehicles that are not pursuit rated or equipped with overhead emergency lights, or driving unmarked vehicles with lights and siren shall terminate their involvement in a pursuit when a marked black and white unit equipped with overhead emergency lights joins the pursuit unless otherwise directed by a supervisor. They may participate as a secondary unit only after receiving specific approval from a supervisor.
Vehicles without red lights and siren shall not initiate or join in a pursuit under any circumstances.