Why Do Police Cars Always Stop Behind the Car Chase Suspects?

There is a common question that arises during high-speed chases: why do police cars always stop behind the car chase suspects rather than in front of them? This practice serves multiple purposes, including enhancing safety for everyone involved and ensuring the officer's own protection. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this widely used police tactic.

Safety

The primary reason for police cars stopping behind the suspect vehicle is safety. By positioning themselves behind the fleeing vehicle, police can protect both themselves and the occupants of other vehicles on the road from potential hazards. This is a federal requirement that aims to divert oncoming traffic away from the suspect's vehicle, effectively taking the hit or damage before it reaches a civilian vehicle.

For officers, being behind the suspect vehicle creates a more challenging situation for the driver to shoot back at them. The driver is forced to look over their shoulder to spot the police car, making it harder to target the officer accurately. This positioning also allows the officer to maintain better visibility of the suspect's actions and any potential accomplices.

Federal Regulations

One of the regulatory requirements for police cars, particularly in the United States, is to follow this protocol. This regulation is designed to protect civilian safety by ensuring that the police car takes the impact from oncoming traffic. While it might seem like a practical measure, it also provides officers with an additional tactical advantage, as the officer's lights can blind the suspect, making it more difficult for them to see and respond to the police presence.

However, it is important to note that not all police officers are fully aware of these regulations. In some cases, police might position themselves in front of the suspect's car or even cut them off in front for convenience. This practice, while it might not align with the official protocol for car chases, is not uncommon and might be used to increase the psychological pressure on the suspect.

Tactical Advantages

For police officers, being behind the suspect in a car chase also offers several tactical advantages. First, it forces the suspect to turn around to see the officer, which can be more difficult and longer than simply glancing over the shoulder. This positioning can also make it more challenging for the suspect to shoot an officer, as the suspect must turn all the way around to do so.

Additionally, the officer can maintain better control over the situation. They can see what other occupants of the car are doing and check if the trunk is closed securely. This is crucial because the officer must ensure that no one can hide in the trunk and attack them while their attention is focused on the driver. Recording devices such as dashcams, bodycams, and even police helicopter footage can provide evidence of this tactic being used effectively in various situations.

While some might argue that the term "suspect" is misleading, it is generally applicable to drivers who have been followed for miles at high speeds. The positioning of the police car behind the suspect vehicle is a standard practice that helps in maintaining a safe and controlled situation during a car chase.

Understanding why police cars always stop behind the car chase suspects can provide insight into their tactics and the reasoning behind their actions. By ensuring everyone's safety, officers can better manage these high-stress situations while upholding the law.