What is one of the major types of law enforcement driving that involves chasing a suspect?

The major type of law enforcement driving that involves chasing a suspect is categorized as pursuits. In the context of law enforcement, a pursuit refers specifically to high-speed chases where officers follow a fleeing suspect who is attempting to evade arrest. Pursuits are often characterized by the urgency and risk involved as officers must balance the need to apprehend the suspect with the safety of the public and themselves.

Pursuits require a specific set of skills and decision-making protocols, as officers are trained to handle high-pressure situations while adhering to department policies regarding safety and engagement. The techniques used during pursuits are focused on effective vehicle control, effective communication with dispatch and other units, and the consideration of the overall context of the chase, such as traffic conditions and the potential risk to civilians.

Other types of driving, while important, do not specifically reference the act of actively chasing a suspect. Non-emergency driving refers to regular patrol and travel without the urgency associated with active incidents. Emergency driving indicates the need for rapid response to incidents but does not inherently involve pursuits unless a suspect is being chased. Defensive driving pertains to techniques aimed at protecting officers and their vehicles from collisions, which is crucial for safe operation but not directly related to the pursuit of a suspect.