A police chase Sydney is an example of a high-speed pursuit of a vehicle by police officers. You may have seen similar scenes in TV shows and movies, especially action movies. While it may seem cool and thrilling for some, police chases pose many threats to the public’s safety. Some of the most common instances involving police chases include:
- Traffic violations: Police may chase a vehicle if the driver is committing a traffic violation, such as speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or driving an unregistered or uninsured vehicle.
- Suspect criminal activity: Police may chase a vehicle if they suspect that the driver is involved in criminal activity, such as drug trafficking, armed robbery, or kidnapping.
- Failure to stop: Police may chase a vehicle if the driver fails to stop for police when directed to do so.
To understand police chase Sydney, let’s highlight important laws and regulations, and discuss why seeking legal advice is important.
Key Takeaways
- A police chase in Sydney can be dangerous and can result in serious consequences for those involved.
- The penalties and fines for engaging in a police chase can be severe, including imprisonment and hefty fines.
- If you are involved in a police chase, it is important to understand your legal rights and seek legal advice as soon as possible.
The Dangers of Police Chases
Police chase Sydney and in other Australian states and cities can be dangerous for several reasons. Here are some reasons why police chases are dangerous:
1. High-speed chases can lead to accidents: During a police chase, the driver of the vehicle being pursued may attempt to evade the police by driving recklessly, running red lights, or driving at high speeds. This can lead to accidents that can cause serious injuries or fatalities to the driver, passengers, pedestrians, or other motorists on the road.
2. Police officers can be injured or killed: Police officers who engage in high-speed chases are also at risk of injury or death. During a police chase, officers may be required to drive at high speeds, which can increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
3. The pursuit can escalate the situation – a police chase can escalate the situation and make it more dangerous. For example, a driver who is being pursued by the police may become more aggressive or desperate, leading to more dangerous driving behaviour.
What Does the Crimes Act 1900 Say?
Section 51B of the Crimes Act 1900 outlines the offence of police chase Sydney and in the rest of NSW. The maximum penalty for the offence of police pursuit is:
- Three years imprisonment for a first offence; and
- Five years imprisonment for a second or subsequent offence.
In order to prove the offence of police pursuit, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the following elements were present:
- The driver knew, ought reasonably to have known, or had reasonable grounds to suspect that police officers were in pursuit of their vehicle.
- The driver was required to stop the vehicle.
- The driver did not stop the vehicle.
- The driver then drove recklessly or at a speed or in a manner dangerous to others.
Sydney Police Chase: Recent News (2023)
1. Police Chase in North West Sydney
According to an article from ABC News, a man and woman were arrested in Sydney after a dangerous police chase that ended with their car crashing into a traffic light. The pair is facing charges of driving recklessly and having stolen goods. The chase began when the driver refused to stop for police.
The driver then drove onto the M5 Motorway and collided with the back of a truck. The pursuit was terminated for safety reasons, but the driver continued:
- Driving recklessly
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Running red lights; and
- Driving on the wrong side of the road
The chase ended when the car crashed into a traffic light pole at North Rocks. Police found two unregistered firearms in the car, along with items that were allegedly stolen from properties.
2. Police Chase in Ashfield
A wild police chase in Sydney occurred on the evening of October 22, 2023. The incident began when a Nissan Infiniti was pulled over on Parramatta Rd in Five Dock, but the driver rolled backwards into the police vehicle and then sped off.
Police chased the driver for over an hour, during which he allegedly reached speeds of up to 140 km/h. The chase was suspended at one point due to the man’s alleged dangerous driving, but PolAir continued to monitor the vehicle.
According to the police, the car repeatedly climbed the sidewalk and crossed over to the wrong side of the street. At the intersection of Liverpool and Parramatta roads in Ashfield, the car eventually struck a pole and came to a stop around 1:10 am (October 23, 2023).
Police from marked and unmarked police cars exited their vehicles before arresting the pair, who were charged with driving offences. Additionally, police also found dangerous weapons in the boot of the stolen Hyundai Sonata.
The driver allegedly bit several police officers while being apprehended, leaving small bite marks. The driver was taken to the hospital, where he is still being watched over by the police. A police officer who suffered a minor leg injury was also taken to the hospital.
Police Chase Sydney: FAQs
Q: What should I do if I am being chased by the NSW police?
A: If you are being chased by the police, the best thing to do is to pull over and stop immediately. Do not try to outrun the police, as this will only put yourself and others at risk.
Q: What happens if I am convicted of a police chase?
A: If you are convicted of a police chase, you may face a prison sentence, a fine, disqualification from driving, and an order to pay compensation to any victims of the chase.
How Can Our Traffic Lawyers Help?
Police chases pose significant risks of accidents for innocent bystanders and result in hefty fines and penalties for offenders. JB Solicitors can help represent people who were harmed in police chases at court and get compensation from police chase offenders.
Our traffic lawyers can also help represent police chase offenders and help them get a lighter penalty. Contact us today if you are involved in a dangerous car chase case.
