lights and sirens

[jess]

I was wondering, when it is not an emergency but you have to go to a call quickly, for what reasons are lights and sirens NOT used (besides your not wanting to alert the bad guy that you're on the way)?

[hwpd]

because every time you run with lights on you are responsible for everything that happens on the road.

Let me give few scenarios.

1. Lets say if you run with lights on, on a call that only means "Get there as fast as possible without using lights and siren" by your department SOP's and you do use lights, and lets say a motorist trying to move out of your way hits a mailbox. Then files a police report about the accident he was involved in. And the insurance company goes out to investigate and finds out that officer was misusing his lights, then the officer is at fault of the accident.
2. Same story, but you're authorized to use lights and siren either by your SOP or situation dictates, then you're not at fault.

[jess]

Oh, okay thank you hwpd! That scenario hadn't occurred to me. :( So in your first scenario, the decision to run without lights on is made in the interest of avoiding an accident (and protection against a potential lawsuit against the city, and maybe the officer)? :rolleyes:

[hwpd]

yes... basically an officer would be at fault of that accident if he runs with light on and can't justify using his lights. Don't forget you also get your *** chewed by your Sgt and Lt.

[Tankus]

we sorta have the same rules....however when it comes to the crunch it is the senior officer in the car that has the final say.....in some circumstances they can override the bosses who authorise the lights/siren calls......but as hwpd has said...the decision and all the associated consquences rest on their shoulders.

by rules and regs.....we have to shut off the siren as we pass hospitals too!!....

(these apply for west aust only as far as i know)

[slick765]

I was wondering, when it is not an emergency but you have to go to a call quickly, for what reasons are lights and sirens NOT used (besides your not wanting to alert the bad guy that you're on the way)?

other than a silent run, i'm not sure.. police drag racing on the strip, ;) maybe?

[jess]

police drag racing on the strip, ;) maybe?

Ha, ha, ha, LOL. Thanks for the laugh, lol.

(I believe I got my answer earlier...in the interests of avoiding an accident, that is, safety...and protection against a potential lawsuit against the officer and the city ;).)

[Solego]

Well, we have an unwritten rule that if you're gonna run fast whether it's authorized or not, at least turn your stuff on. Becuase if you get into an accident while traveling rather fast and you didn't have any stuff on, then your create a huge liability for your agency. If you had your lights on, then your liability is lesser. Besides, if you're gonna haul *** getting to a bubba because you hear that tone in his voice, it's best to give people all the warning you can.