The Act Of Evading The Police
Evading the police, also known as fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, is a serious criminal offense that occurs when a driver intentionally tries to escape from a police officer attempting to make a traffic stop. This act poses significant risks to public safety and can result in severe legal consequences. In this blog, an attorney with our friends at The Lynch Law Group will delve into what evading the police means, its consequences, and the reasons behind such actions.
What Constitutes Evading The Police?
Evading the police typically involves several elements:
Initiation of a Traffic Stop: The incident begins when a police officer attempts to make a lawful traffic stop due to a suspected violation, such as speeding, a broken taillight, or reckless driving.
Failure to Stop: To be considered evading, the driver must intentionally ignore or disregard the officer’s attempt to pull them over. This might involve increasing speed, turning down side streets, or attempting to flee in some other manner.
Intent: The driver’s actions must be intentional. Simply failing to stop due to an inability to hear or see the police officer, for instance, may not constitute evading.
Continuation of Pursuit: The act is considered ongoing until the driver either stops voluntarily, is apprehended by law enforcement, or manages to successfully escape.
Consequences Of Evading The Police:
The consequences for evading the police can be severe, depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the incident:
Criminal Charges: Evading the police is typically charged as a crime. The specific charge may vary, but it is often a felony offense.
Driver’s License Suspension: Conviction of evading the police often results in a driver’s license suspension. The length of the suspension can vary depending on the jurisdiction.
Fines and Penalties: Offenders may face significant fines, court costs, and legal fees.
Jail or Prison Time: Depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the case, individuals convicted of evading the police may serve time in jail or prison.
Increased Insurance Premiums: Conviction of this crime can lead to higher auto insurance premiums, making it costly in the long term.
Criminal Record: A conviction for evading the police results in a criminal record, which can have long-lasting consequences, affecting employment, housing, and other aspects of life.
It’s essential to understand that evading the police is both illegal and dangerous. Attempting to flee from law enforcement can lead to high-speed chases, accidents, and even fatalities. If you find yourself in a situation involving the police, it is advisable to pull over safely, cooperate, and address any legal concerns through proper channels and legal representation.