Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf is a New York Plaintiff's personal injury law firm specializing in automobile accidents, construction accidents, medical malpractice, products liability, police misconduct and all types of New York personal injury litigation.
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NYPD Revises Pursuit Policy to Enhance Public Safety

NYPD Chase LawyersAs police chase accident lawyers, we are encouraged by the New York Police Department’s (NYPD) recent policy change aimed at reducing high-speed pursuits. Effective February 1, 2025, the NYPD will limit vehicle chases to suspects involved in serious and violent crimes, excluding pursuits for traffic infractions, violations, and non-violent misdemeanors.

This policy shift comes in response to a significant increase in police pursuits and the associated risks to public safety. In 2024, the NYPD conducted 2,278 vehicle pursuits, with approximately 25% resulting in collisions, property damage, or physical harm. Notably, about two-thirds of these chases originated from traffic stops, which will no longer warrant pursuits under the new guidelines.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch emphasized that the department’s enforcement efforts should not place the public or officers at undue risk. She highlighted that modern policing tools enable the apprehension of suspects more safely and effectively, rendering many high-speed pursuits unnecessary.

The dangers of high-speed chases are well-documented. A 2024 investigation revealed a notable rise in pursuit-related car crashes in New York, with more deadly pursuits occurring in the past four years than at any other time since 2012.

Under the new policy, officers are required to consider factors such as the pursuit’s proximity to residential neighborhoods, schools, or playgrounds. Importantly, officers will not face criticism or disciplinary action if they decide to terminate a pursuit due to safety concerns.

As attorneys representing victims of police chase accidents, I view this policy change as a positive step toward enhancing public safety and reducing unnecessary risks. By limiting high-speed pursuits to only the most serious offenses, the NYPD acknowledges the inherent dangers these chases pose to innocent bystanders, motorists, and pedestrians. This reform aligns with the broader goal of ensuring that law enforcement practices do not inadvertently compromise the safety of the communities they serve.