When you’re involved in a car accident with a police officer, the legal path forward can feel intimidating and unclear. These cases are unlike typical car crashes and the consequences for victims can be severe. That’s why working with an experienced personal injury attorney who understands both Texas civil law and government liability is so critical.
Our attorneys don’t just handle routine car accident cases. We’re equipped to deal with the layers of legal immunity, procedural hurdles, and evidence issues that arise in collisions involving police vehicles.
Whether the officer was off-duty, responding to an emergency, or failed to follow basic traffic laws, we know how to uncover the facts and hold the right party accountable. Call (817) 335-4357 or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
What Makes the Law Office of Paul Previte the Right Choice?
We offer:
- Compassionate, one-on-one legal support from attorneys who take time to listen and understand your story.
- Experience with government liability claims, including cases against city and state agencies in Texas.
- Local insight—from accident hotspots like I-820, I-35W, and Highway 121 to dealing with claim filings in Tarrant County.
- Aggressive pursuit of justice, even when the other side has legal protections like qualified immunity.
Police accident cases require careful handling, especially when you’re facing resistance from city lawyers or insurance adjusters who assume the officer did nothing wrong. Our attorneys aren’t intimidated by uniformed defendants. We’re here to make sure you don’t get overlooked or dismissed.
What Is a Police-Involved Crash and Why Is It Different?
A crash involving a police officer can mean many things: a squad car running a red light, an officer speeding without lights or sirens, or even an off-duty officer causing a wreck in a personal vehicle. What sets these accidents apart is the added legal complexity.
Many people don’t realize that suing a police department or officer in Texas isn’t as straightforward as a regular car accident claim. Law enforcement officers often have qualified immunity, and claims against government entities must follow strict rules under the Texas Tort Claims Act. If you don’t file notice properly or miss deadlines, you could lose your right to seek damages altogether.
That’s why it’s so important to speak to an attorney as early as possible. A delay could cost you your entire case.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Crash With a Police Officer?
The steps you take in the minutes after a crash with a police officer can significantly affect your safety, your rights, and your ability to file a claim later. Even though the other driver is a law enforcement officer, the process should be treated with the same urgency and care as any other car accident.
Do I Still Need to Stop and Exchange Information If a Police Officer Is Involved?
Yes. Just like any other crash, you are legally required to stop, check for injuries, and exchange information even if the other driver is an on-duty police officer. Do not assume that because the officer is in uniform or driving a marked patrol car that you can leave the scene. Failing to stop can be considered a hit-and-run.
Take down:
- The officer’s full name and badge number
- The agency they work for (city police, sheriff’s department, etc.)
- Patrol car number or vehicle license plate
- Any identifying incident number they provide
If the officer refuses to give you information or discourages you from calling another officer to the scene, that should be documented as well.
Should I Call 911 or Report the Crash If the Officer Doesn’t?
Yes, always call 911—even if the other driver is an officer. Some officers may try to handle the crash internally or “off the record,” especially if they believe they were at fault. This is never in your best interest. Having a neutral third-party officer write the report helps ensure the facts are documented objectively.
Request that a supervisor or another officer from a different department respond to the scene if necessary. Be calm and respectful but protect your rights.
How Should I Document the Crash Scene?
Gather as much evidence as possible, especially if the officer appears to be in the wrong. Use your smartphone to:
- Take wide and close-up photos of all vehicles and damage
- Record any relevant skid marks, traffic signs, or nearby surveillance cameras
- Get witness names and phone numbers
- Take a brief video statement while the scene is fresh in your mind
If you notice the officer trying to alter the scene or make verbal excuses (“I didn’t see the light,” “I was responding to something urgent”), note those statements immediately.
Should I Seek Medical Attention Right Away?
Yes—even if you feel fine. Accidents involving police vehicles often occur at high speeds or in unpredictable traffic scenarios, which can lead to head trauma, spinal injuries, or internal damage that isn’t immediately obvious.
You’ll also need medical records to support any future injury claim. Visiting a hospital or urgent care the same day not only protects your health. It documents your injuries and shows that you took them seriously.
Do I Need to Call My Insurance and a Lawyer Right Away?
Absolutely. Contact your insurance company to report the crash but avoid making recorded statements until you’ve spoken with a personal injury attorney. When a police officer is involved, fault and liability can quickly become contested.
That’s where we come in. The Fort Worth police accident attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte can advise you on what to say, help you avoid legal traps, and begin preserving the evidence needed to build your case.
Can I Sue a Police Officer or the Police Department After a Crash?
It is possible to file a claim or lawsuit after a car accident involving a police officer—but these cases are more complicated than regular auto accidents. Government agencies and their employees have special legal protections that can limit your right to sue unless very specific criteria are met.
That’s why it’s so important to speak with a knowledgeable attorney as early as possible. Missing a procedural step can result in your claim being denied completely.
What Legal Protections Do Police Officers Have?
Police officers are often protected by qualified immunity, a legal doctrine that shields them from personal liability when performing official duties—unless they acted with gross negligence or outside the scope of their job.
In Texas, claims involving police crashes generally fall under the Texas Tort Claims Act (TTCA). This law allows people to sue the government in limited circumstances, such as when an employee (like a police officer) causes a crash while operating a government vehicle in the course of their job.
However, there are many exceptions. For instance, if the officer was responding to an emergency with lights and sirens on and was following department policy, the department may not be liable even if someone was injured.
Can I Sue If the Officer Was Off-Duty?
Yes. If the officer was off-duty and using their personal vehicle, they are typically treated just like any other private citizen. In those situations, qualified immunity usually does not apply. However, if the officer was working a side job using a department vehicle or wearing a uniform, liability could still fall on the department, making things more complex.
Each situation depends on the facts, which is why our attorneys investigate every detail to determine who can be held responsible.
Who Can I Sue: The Officer or the Department?
Depending on the circumstances, your claim might be filed against:
- The individual officer, if they were acting outside the scope of their duties
- The police department or city, if the crash occurred while the officer was on duty and using a government vehicle
- Multiple parties, if more than one person or entity contributed to the crash
In Texas, municipalities can be held liable under the TTCA for the negligent operation of a motor vehicle by a government employee but only if very specific notice and timing rules are followed.
What Are the Notice and Deadline Rules for Suing in Texas?
The biggest risk in suing a police department or officer is missing the deadline to file a proper notice. Under the Texas Tort Claims Act:
- You must provide formal notice of your claim within six months of the incident (some cities, including Fort Worth, require notice in as little as 60–90 days)
- The notice must include the date, location, damages, and facts of the claim
- You typically have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit but that window can be shortened or lost if the notice isn’t done correctly
Failing to provide notice can be fatal to your case. That’s why we act fast, prepare accurate documentation, and ensure all legal procedures are met right from the start.
What Types of Accidents Involving Police Officers Can Lead to a Personal Injury Claim?
Not all collisions with law enforcement qualify for a claim under Texas law—but many do. The key question is whether the officer’s actions were negligent or outside the bounds of policy or legal immunity.
At the Law Office of Paul Previte, our Fort Worth car accident attorneys have experience handling both common and uncommon police-involved accident scenarios. Below are examples of the types of cases we investigate and litigate.
What Are the Most Common Types of Police-Involved Car Accidents?
Some of the most frequently seen crashes involving police vehicles include:
- High-speed collisions during non-emergency driving
Officers who speed without lights or sirens, especially through intersections, can be held liable if they cause a crash. - Rear-end collisions by distracted officers
Officers using in-vehicle computers, radios, or phones may become distracted and cause rear-end accidents. These cases often involve clear liability. - Failure to yield while responding to a call
Even in emergency situations, officers must exercise caution. If they ignore stop signs or red lights and collide with another driver, a claim may be possible. - Crashes during pursuits or roadblocks
Injuries to uninvolved third parties—such as bystanders or drivers struck during a police chase—can create liability for the department. - Intersection T-bone crashes
These often occur when officers disregard traffic signals or speed through crowded roadways without warning.
What Are Some Uncommon or Overlooked Police Crash Scenarios?
We also help clients navigate more complex or rare cases that are often misunderstood or mishandled by less experienced lawyers, such as:
- Off-duty officers causing a crash while intoxicated
Even if not in uniform, officers are still expected to uphold the law. A DUI crash involving an off-duty cop may result in both personal liability and departmental scrutiny. - Accidents involving undercover or unmarked vehicles
These cases are harder to identify and investigate—but still eligible for claims if the officer acted negligently. - Crashes caused by unauthorized vehicle pursuits
If an officer initiates a pursuit without proper justification or violates chase policy, both they and their department may be liable. - Pedestrian accidents involving police cruisers
Officers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks just like any other driver. When they don’t, serious injuries can occur. - Injuries to passengers in patrol vehicles
Officers who drive recklessly with a civilian or detainee in the car may be liable for injuries to their own passengers.
Why Does the Type of Police Crash Matter?
The type of accident can determine:
- Whether qualified immunity applies
- Which party is responsible (officer vs. city or department)
- What evidence needs to be preserved
- How quickly notice must be filed under the Texas Tort Claims Act
That’s why we conduct thorough investigations, including reviewing body cam footage, dispatch logs, vehicle GPS data, and police pursuit policies. Understanding the type of crash isn’t just a detail. It’s a crucial piece of your claim’s success.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Police-Involved Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a crash involving a police officer, you’re likely facing mounting medical bills, lost income, and emotional trauma. Many victims hesitate to pursue claims because they’re unsure whether compensation is even possible when a government agency is involved. The truth is: if the officer or department was negligent, you may be entitled to full damages, just like in any other personal injury case.
The Fort Worth police accident attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte help victims understand exactly what they can claim and fight to maximize their recovery.
What Damages Am I Entitled to After a Crash With a Police Vehicle?
If your claim is allowed under the Texas Tort Claims Act, you can pursue the same categories of compensation as in a standard car accident, including:
- Medical expenses: Emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, rehab, and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages and loss of future income: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work or reduce your long-term earning ability
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, mental anguish, anxiety, and PTSD
- Property damage: Costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle
- Disability or disfigurement: For permanent injuries or long-term impairments caused by the crash
While punitive damages are generally not allowed in claims against Texas government entities, you may still be able to recover substantial compensatory damages, especially if the injuries are serious or permanent.
Are There Caps on Compensation in Texas Police Accident Claims?
Yes. The Texas Tort Claims Act places limits on how much a victim can recover from a government entity, including:
- $250,000 per person
- $500,000 total per incident for bodily injury
- $100,000 for property damage
These limits apply when the defendant is a governmental unit, like a city police department or sheriff’s office. However, if the officer was acting outside the scope of employment, or if a private contractor or third party was involved, those caps may not apply.
How Do I Know What My Case Is Worth?
Every case is different. Factors that influence the value of your claim include:
- The severity of your injuries
- How long you’re expected to recover or whether your injuries are permanent
- The strength of your evidence, including eyewitnesses, crash reports, and video footage
- Whether the officer was clearly at fault or acted recklessly
- How well your case complies with the TTCA’s notice and filing requirements
That’s why our attorneys take the time to evaluate each case carefully. We don’t just look at your medical bills—we look at your entire life and what’s been affected. Our goal is to pursue every dollar you’re legally entitled to, while protecting you from delays, denials, or lowball settlements.
What Makes Police-Involved Accidents More Legally Complex?
Police accident cases come with unique legal hurdles that don’t apply to ordinary car accidents. These challenges can make it much harder for victims to recover compensation unless they have an experienced attorney guiding them through the process.
At the Law Office of Paul Previte, we know how to navigate these legal landmines—and we act fast to protect your rights from day one.
Why Are These Cases So Different From Regular Car Accidents?
Crashes involving law enforcement are different because:
- The at-fault party is a government employee, protected by sovereign immunity laws
- The deadlines are shorter and stricter, requiring formal notice in addition to filing a lawsuit
- Evidence may be controlled by the police agency, making it harder for victims to access body cam footage, GPS logs, or pursuit records
- Insurance negotiations can be more adversarial, especially if a municipality is trying to protect its budget or reputation
What would be a straightforward injury case with another driver becomes a highly procedural legal battle when the other party wears a badge.
What Happens If the Officer Violated Department Policy?
If the officer broke departmental rules like engaging in an unauthorized pursuit, using a cellphone while driving, or failing to activate emergency lights this may help overcome immunity.
Internal policy violations aren’t just bad optics. They can be crucial pieces of evidence that show negligence or recklessness. Our legal team obtains policy manuals, discipline records, and internal affairs reports when appropriate to support our clients’ claims.
Can It Be Harder to Prove Fault in These Cases?
Yes. Officers are often given the benefit of the doubt in accident investigations, especially if their fellow officers respond to the crash scene. Police reports may be biased, or key evidence might go uncollected.
In addition, victims may feel intimidated or hesitant to challenge an officer’s version of events. That’s why we conduct independent investigations, preserve video evidence, speak to civilian witnesses, and ensure that no one is above accountability.
Will the Police Department Cooperate?
Not always. In some cases, departments may delay releasing evidence, deny liability outright, or discourage victims from filing claims. This is especially common in crashes involving high-ranking officers or policy violations.
Our attorneys file preservation letters early, demand open records under the Texas Public Information Act, and take legal steps to secure the evidence needed to pursue justice.
What Should I Do If I’ve Been in an Accident With a Police Officer in Fort Worth?
If you were hit by a police car or injured in any crash involving law enforcement—the actions you take in the first few hours and days can make or break your case. Unlike typical car accidents, these cases involve complex legal standards, tight deadlines, and high-stakes government procedures.
The Fort Worth car accident attorneys at the Law Office of Paul Previte are here to protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Steps Should I Take Immediately After the Crash?
If you’re physically able, here’s what we recommend doing right away:
- Call 911 and request an ambulance if needed
Even though a police vehicle was involved, it’s important to have a separate report created and get medical help as soon as possible. - Take photos of the scene
If you’re safe, document the vehicles, license plates, skid marks, intersection signs, and any damage. - Get the officer’s name and badge number
Ask for the officer’s department, unit, and contact info. This will help with the investigation later. - Identify civilian witnesses
Their statements can be more objective than those from other officers. - Do not admit fault or speculate
Be factual with police investigators but avoid giving recorded statements until you’ve spoken to a lawyer. - Seek medical attention right away
Even if your injuries seem minor, adrenaline can mask pain. Getting prompt treatment also creates crucial medical records.
What Should I Do in the Days Following the Crash?
- Request a copy of the crash report
This may be completed by a different agency than the officer’s own department. We can help track this down. - Write down everything you remember
Include speed, traffic signals, officer behavior, and any statements made at the scene. - Avoid social media posts about the accident
Insurance companies and government attorneys can use public posts against you. - Call a police accident attorney immediately
These cases move fast. The sooner we start investigating, the better chance we have to preserve evidence and meet legal deadlines.
Why Is Legal Help So Critical Right Away?
Texas law may require you to file a formal notice of claim within as little as 60–90 days, depending on the city. Missing this step, even if your case is strong, can permanently bar your right to sue.
That’s why we step in quickly to:
- Send notice of claim letters to the correct government agencies
- Demand the preservation of body cam footage and dash cam video
- Request 911 call logs, dispatch records, and pursuit policies
- Interview witnesses before memories fade
- Work with accident reconstructionists if needed
We understand what’s at stake and we’ll do everything we can to make sure your case gets the attention and justice it deserves.
Why Choose Attorney Paul Previte After a Crash Involving Law Enforcement?
Choosing the right attorney after an accident with a police officer is one of the most important decisions you can make. These cases demand more than just legal knowledge. They require courage, precision, and an attorney who won’t back down from a complex fight.
At the Law Office of Paul Previte, we focus on helping injured Texans stand up to powerful entities including local police departments, city governments, and their insurance teams.
Who Is Paul Previte, and Why Do Clients Trust Him?
Fort Worth personal injury attorney Paul Previte has spent decades fighting for individuals injured in serious car accidents, including those involving government and police vehicles. He has:
- Extensive experience with Texas Tort Claims Act (TTCA) procedures
- A background in holding public entities and law enforcement accountable for misconduct
- A reputation for compassion, responsiveness, and results
We know how to navigate sovereign immunity laws, gather evidence quickly, and take on cases others avoid.
What Sets Our Attorneys Apart?
- We act quickly to preserve critical evidence like dash cam footage, radio dispatch logs, and internal policy violations.
- We don’t shy away from tough cases, including crashes caused by on-duty or off-duty officers, high-speed pursuits, or unauthorized use of force.
- We focus on your recovery, while we handle every legal detail and communication on your behalf.
When you’re facing a system that often protects its own, you need a legal team that puts your needs first—and has the skill to go up against government-backed insurers.
Do You Handle Cases in My Area?
Yes. We represent clients across Fort Worth, Haltom City, Arlington, North Richland Hills, River Oaks, and surrounding areas in Tarrant County. We also handle cases on major highways and roads where police-involved crashes frequently occur, including:
- Interstate 820
- Airport Freeway (Highway 121/183)
- East Belknap Street
- North Beach Street
- Hwy 377 (Denton Hwy)
If you were injured in any of these areas, or anywhere in Texas, we’re ready to help. Speak with our Fort Worth accident attorneys today by calling (817) 335-4357. No fee unless we win your case.
