What Happens If a Cop Car Hits You?
Car accidents are stressful, but what happens if you get into a police car accident? Whether you were stopped at a light, driving down the road, or even parked, being hit by a police car can leave you confused and unsure of what to do next. Unlike accidents with regular drivers, crashes involving law enforcement vehicles can be more complicated. Understanding your rights and the next steps is important to ensure you get fair treatment and compensation.
Who Is at Fault in a Police Car Crash?
Determining fault in a police car crash works the same way as any other accident. If the police officer is at fault for the car accident, they or their department may be responsible for damages. However, there are special rules when government vehicles are involved.
Fault is typically determined by:
- Traffic Laws – If the officer was speeding or ran a red light, they could be at fault.
- Emergency Situations – Police cars are allowed to break some traffic rules when responding to emergencies, but they must still drive safely.
- Negligence – If an officer was driving recklessly or distracted, they may be liable for the accident.
Since these cases can be tricky, reaching out to a personal injury attorney can help you determine who is responsible and how to proceed.
Can You Sue the Police Department?
In many cases, yes. If a police officer is at fault for a car accident, you may be able to file a claim against the city or county they work for. However, suing a government agency has different rules than suing a regular person.
- Some cities have sovereign immunity, which limits lawsuits against the government.
- You may need to file a notice of claim before suing.
- There are often shorter deadlines to file claims against police departments.
Because these cases can be complex, a lawyer can ensure that you follow the correct legal steps and increase your chances of winning your case.
What to Do If a Police Car Hits Your Car
If you are involved in a car crash with police, follow these steps to protect yourself and your claim:
- Check for Injuries – Make sure you and any passengers are safe. If needed, call 911 for medical help.
- Call Another Officer – Even though a police officer was involved, you still need an accident report. Another officer should come to the scene to document what happened.
- Gather Evidence – Take pictures of the accident, damage, and injuries. If possible, get the witness’s contact information.
- Do Not Admit Fault – Stay calm and provide the facts. Avoid saying anything that could be used against you later.
- Seek Legal Help – Because dealing with police accidents can be complicated, talking to a personal injury lawyer is a smart step to ensure your rights are protected.
Legal representation can be especially important when dealing with law enforcement agencies, as they may have strong legal teams working to minimize their liability.
Can You Get Compensation If a Cop Hits Your Car?
If you were hit by a police car, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages if you missed work
- Pain and suffering
However, filing a claim against a government entity is different from filing against a regular driver. You may need to follow specific legal procedures and time limits to file your claim.
What if You Hit a Police Car?
If you crash into a police car, the process is similar to any other accident. However, because the vehicle belongs to law enforcement, there may be more scrutiny in determining fault. Possible consequences include:
- Traffic Tickets – If you were at fault, you could get a citation.
- Higher Insurance Rates – Your insurance may go up if you were responsible for the accident.
- Legal Action – In severe cases, you could be sued for damages to the police vehicle.
Being hit by a police car can be a confusing experience, but you have rights. Whether the police officer was at fault for the accident or you need to defend yourself against false claims, knowing what to do can help protect your future. A lawyer can guide you through the process and make sure you receive fair treatment and compensation.
Contact the Alabama Personal Injury Attorneys at Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers. Call us at (205) 206-5088
Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We serve Shelby County, Madison County, Montgomery County in Alabama, and its surrounding areas.
We are located in Birmingham, Huntsville & Montgomery.
Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers – Birmingham Office
880 Montclair Road, Ste 300,
Birmingham, AL 35213
(205) 206-5088
Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers – Huntsville Office
116 Jefferson St. Suite 207
Hunstville, AL, 35801
(256) 666-4660
Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers – Montgomery Office
7 Clayton St, Suite 200,
Montgomery, AL 36104
(334) 513-2110