Baton Rouge considering changes in local laws after several die during recent police chases

Baton Rouge, LA – Law enforcement may sometimes need to take action to prevent a criminal from fleeing and take them into custody. However, police chases in automobiles can be extremely dangerous for the general public as well, especially in areas where there is other traffic from innocent bystanders. The city of Baton Rouge is currently trying to find a solution that would balance public concerns about accidents with law enforcement concerns about the needs of officers to detain suspects.

The Advocate reported on a series of local accidents which resulted in innocent people being killed during police chases [1].

Series of fatal police chases raises public concern

The article stated that five people had died during police chases in the Baton Rouge area in ten months. Only one of them was suspected to be involved in the crime that resulted in the chase. The latest victim was a 56 year old male who was in the way of another driver trying to get away from the police. Local elected officials experienced public pressure to rethink this particular policy and how law enforcement should handle fleeing suspects. The Mayor-President released a statement that the police department is conducting a full review, and that police chases should only be done when there is little risk to the public and they are absolutely necessary.

One local representative had been working on changes in legislation since an accident that killed two high school students just a couple of months earlier. He wanted to meet with local law enforcement to discuss the possibility of new laws that could have harsh sentences for officers who injure or kill people during chases. Most of the prior fatal police crashes are still under investigation, and there has not been much info released regarding how fast the officers were going before they struck the bystanders. There were also concerns that some officers may not be following proper procedures for how to handle pursuits, even after training on the issue.

Suing the government for negligence

There are ways that people who are killed or injured by police or other government vehicles can receive a remedy through the civil courts. A negligence case can be filed against the relevant local government for damages.

Accident attorneys in Louisiana

Miller, Hampton, and Hilgendorf is a law firm that handles personal injury and motor vehicle accident lawsuits in the Baton Rouge area. Those who have recently been involved in a car accident can contact the firm for advice and representation.

USAttorneys.com is a service that works with people who are trying to find lawyers in their city or state. Anyone who needs a referral can call 800-672-3103 to get started.

Firm contact info:

Miller, Hampton, and Hilgendorf

3960 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70806

225-343-2205

www.mlhlaw.com

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