California Law Enforcement Vehicle Pursuit

Guidelines

The California Law Enforcement Vehicle Pursuit Guidelines (pdf) contain two main sections and an appendix. The first section describes the aspects of vehicle pursuit, such as driving tactics, air support, and communications; the second section contains applicable state and federal regulations. The appendix includes vehicle pursuit case law and a glossary of related terms. These guidelines are designed to assist law enforcement executives in addressing the broad range of issues surrounding vehicle pursuits. Accordingly, the guidelines are intended to promote discussion, analysis, and review of the agency’s pursuit policy. It is recommended that these policies be developed in concert with agency legal counsel.

Vehicle Code §17004.7(b)(2) includes, “A requirement that all peace officers of the public agency certify in writing that they have received, read, and understand the policy. ” A form similar to the sample (doc) can be used and maintained by an agency to document compliance. This form is provided as a sample and is not required by POST. The required documentation (or a facsimile) is to be retained at your agency. Do not send this documentation to POST.