Can a Cop Charge Me with Citations if They Stopped Pursuit?

Question from Nique, Can a Cop Charge Me with Citations if They Stopped Pursuit?

Answer from AI:

Yes, a police officer can still charge you with citations even if they attempted to pull you over, you kept going, and they eventually stopped the pursuit. Here’s a general explanation of how this works in the United States.

Understanding Traffic Stops and Citations

When a police officer attempts to pull you over, they are usually doing so because they believe you have committed a traffic violation or another offense. If you do not stop, this can lead to additional charges.

Potential Charges

If you fail to stop for a police officer, you could face several potential charges, including:

• Failure to Yield: Not stopping for a police officer can result in a citation for failure to yield to an emergency vehicle.
• Evading Arrest: In some jurisdictions, continuing to drive after an officer signals you to stop can be considered evading arrest, which is a more serious offense.
• Reckless Driving: If your actions while evading the police are deemed dangerous, you could be charged with reckless driving.

How Citations Can Be Issued

Even if the police stop pursuing you, they can still issue citations based on:

1. License Plate Identification: Officers can use your vehicle’s license plate to identify you and issue citations by mail.
2. Witness Statements: If there are witnesses to the incident, their statements can be used to support the issuance of citations.
3. Video Evidence: Dashcam or bodycam footage from the police vehicle can be used as evidence to issue citations.

Legal Consequences

The legal consequences of failing to stop for a police officer can vary by state and the specific circumstances of the incident. Potential penalties include:

• Fines
• Points on your driving record
• Increased insurance rates
• Possible jail time for more serious offenses like evading arrest

When to Seek Legal Advice

If you find yourself in this situation, it is crucial to consult with a legal professional. An attorney can provide personalized advice based on the specifics of your case and jurisdiction. They can also help you understand your rights and potential defenses.

Self-Help Resources

For more information, you can refer to:

• Nolo’s Guide to Traffic Tickets and Violations
• FindLaw’s Overview of Traffic Tickets

Remember, while self-help resources can provide general information, they are not a substitute for professional legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney to address your specific legal needs.