Car Accidents Caused By the Police

Car accidents can be a traumatic experience, and the complexity escalates when they involve police vehicles. At The Dominguez Firm, we understand the unique circumstances surrounding car accidents caused by police personnel and recognize the urgent need for justice and compensation for the victims. 

We have been committed to fighting for the rights of car accident victims for over 30 years. With a staggering 96%* success rate, we have secured over $1 billion* for our clients. We’ll shed light on the concerning issue of car accidents caused by police officers, provide essential information about your rights and the legal steps you can take if you were seriously injured. Let our experience and dedication be your guiding light during these challenging times.

Understanding Car Accidents Caused by the Police

Car accidents involving law enforcement vehicles involve unique laws that make them different from regular car accidents. Understanding this is vital in seeking justice and rightful compensation. In this section, we will unravel the various circumstances and factors that contribute to these accidents and their distinct legal implications.

The Unique Challenges of Police-Involved Car Accidents

Car accidents can become significantly more complicated when they involve police vehicles. The reasons are twofold: the immunity law enforcement can claim in certain situations, and the potential for conflicts of interest when police departments investigate their own.

Police officers, like any other driver, can make mistakes that lead to accidents. Excessive speed, distraction, and failure to adhere to traffic rules may cause these accidents. However, police officers often face high-stakes, high-pressure situations that may necessitate aggressive driving. These situations could include responding to an emergency call or chasing a suspect. Even though officers are trained to handle these dangerous situations, the probability of accidents increases.

Regarding the legal picture, sovereign immunity could protect police officers from lawsuits, especially if they acted in their official capacity during the incident. The doctrine of sovereign immunity originated from the principle that the government cannot be sued without its consent. Though this immunity is not absolute and can be overcome in certain situations, it adds another layer of complexity to the legal process.

Moreover, conflicts of interest can arise when police departments investigate accidents involving their own officers. This can make it challenging for victims to be treated fairly and to trust in the impartiality of the investigation.

At The Dominguez Firm, we have extensive experience navigating these very complex types of car accident cases. We are committed to providing quality representation to victims of police-induced car accidents and pursuing justice for injured victims.

Your Rights as a Victim

As a victim of a police-involved car accident, you have rights that need to be respected and protected. First and foremost, you have the right to medical treatment. In the aftermath of an accident, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention, even if you think you’re not injured. This not only ensures your health and well-being but also serves as vital evidence if you decide to pursue a lawsuit.

You also have the right to collect evidence at the scene. This may include photographs or videos of the scene, detailed notes of the incident, and contact information of witnesses. These can be instrumental in demonstrating the facts of the accident.

Moreover, you have the right to report the accident. Even though the accident involves police personnel, you should still file a report with a different department or a higher authority within the same department. This is a critical step in the legal procedure following a car accident.

Lastly, you have the right to legal representation. Pursuing a lawsuit in a police-involved car accident can be daunting due to the unique challenges involved. An experienced attorney can guide you through the complex legal landscape, ensuring your rights are upheld, and you receive the compensation you deserve.

At The Dominguez Firm, we advocate for victims’ rights. Our extensive understanding of the legal intricacies of police-induced car accidents equips us to provide comprehensive and compassionate representation to our clients. We navigate the legal hurdles on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we relentlessly pursue justice and compensation for you.

Steps to Take After an Officer-Involved Car Accident

When involved in a car accident where a police officer is at fault, it’s important to be aware of the steps to take to ensure your rights are adequately protected. It’s normal to be disoriented after a car accident, but knowing the right steps to take can make the process smoother.

Step 1: Document the Accident

Immediately following the accident, ensure you document the scene as much as possible. This includes taking pictures of the damage to your vehicle and any other involved. Note the exact location and time, and record any visible injuries. Remember, the information documented at this stage forms the foundation of your case.

Step 2: Seek Medical Attention

Even if you don’t feel injured, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Hidden injuries may manifest later, and failing to seek immediate medical attention could impact your claim. If you’ve suffered serious injuries, call 911 immediately. If you’re unable to do so, have someone else call.

Step 3: Collect Witness Information

If there were any witnesses to the accident, obtain their contact information including their names, email addresses and phone numbers. Witnesses can provide an unbiased account of the incident, which can strengthen your case.

Step 4: File a Police Report

Despite the involvement of a police officer in the accident, it is important to file a police report. This may initially seem awkward, but it is a necessary step. Also, don’t assume that you don’t have to ask for a traffic collision report because an officer hit you. You do, or you may not have one and it’s a crucial piece of evidence to build your personal injury case on.

Step 5: Consult with a Lawyer

Considering the complexity of such cases, consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. A seasoned personal injury attorney will guide you through this unique legal landscape, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

At The Dominguez Firm, we fully understand the intricacies of these types of cases. We’ve successfully helped victims navigate the legal process and secure rightful compensation. Trust us to be your ally in this journey, giving you the representation you need at a difficult time.

How The Dominguez Firm Can Assist

At The Dominguez Firm, we are deeply committed to advocating for victims of car accidents caused by the police. Leveraging our 30 years of experience in personal injury law, we understand the unique sensitivities surrounding these cases. Our team of litigation attorneys provides comprehensive legal assistance to ensure justice is served.

Our firm’s record of success speaks for itself. With a staggering 96%* success rate, we have secured over $1 billion* for our clients, including those who were victims of police-involved car accidents. Handling these cases requires a sophisticated understanding of the law, a skill our attorneys have honed over the years.

Our approach is meticulous and thorough. We begin by conducting an independent investigation of the accident, examining every detail to build a robust case on your behalf. This includes working with accident reconstruction experts, when necessary, to illustrate the police officer’s liability. First, our in-house investigators help collect vital evidence at the scene of the accident. Then, our personal injury attorneys also work diligently to collect evidence, interview witnesses, and liaise with medical professionals to establish the full extent of your injuries and associated costs.

We understand that the legal process can be overwhelming, particularly when dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event. The Dominguez Firm takes charge of all legal proceedings, allowing you to focus on your recovery. We are relentless in pursuing justice and compensation, challenging sovereign immunity when applicable, and ensuring you receive fair treatment throughout the process.

Trust in The Dominguez Firm to stand by your side in these challenging circumstances. Our extensive knowledge, vast experience, and unwavering commitment have made us a trusted ally for countless victims. We pledge to fight for your rights, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure the compensation you rightly deserve.

Our Unwavering Commitment to Our Clients

Dealing with car accidents caused by police personnel requires thorough knowledge and experience. Remember, you have rights, and you deserve justice. Don’t face this stressful situation alone. The Dominguez Firm stands ready to fight for you. We have a proven track record of success, securing substantial compensation for our clients even in the most challenging cases. Our commitment to justice is unwavering, and we offer free case consultations 24/7. If you or a loved one have been a victim of a car accident caused by police, call us today at (800) 818-1818. We can also travel to your home or hospital if needed.