Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) Law Enforcement Driver Practice Test

Where should an officer position their vehicle during a pursuit?

1. Slightly behind the pursued vehicle

2. In front of the pursued vehicle

3. Slightly to the left of the pursued vehicle

4. Directly next to the pursued vehicle

The correct answer is: Slightly to the left of the pursued vehicle

Positioning an officer's vehicle slightly to the left of the pursued vehicle during a pursuit is strategically advantageous for several reasons. This position allows the officer to maintain a safe distance while also keeping the pursued vehicle in view, facilitating better assessment of the situation and reaction options. Being slightly offset helps reduce the risk of a collision, as it avoids positioning the police vehicle directly in line with the evasive maneuvers of the pursued vehicle. Moreover, this angle provides a tactical advantage for communication with other officers and a clearer line of sight for using visual indicators or signals. It also maintains readiness for immediate action should the situation escalate. Maintaining this position allows the officer to better reposition their vehicle as needed, responding dynamically to the movements of the pursued vehicle, while adhering to safety protocols. This practice is grounded in the principles of defensive driving and pursuit management, which emphasize maintaining control and minimizing risk during high-stress operations.