The PIT Maneuver: Car Chase Immobilization Technique
The Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) is a pursuit tactic used by law enforcement agencies worldwide to incapacitate a moving vehicle during high-speed chases.
Also known as tactical vehicle intervention (TVI), the maneuver is designed to end vehicle pursuits quickly and safely, minimizing potential harm to innocent bystanders and police officers. -Excerpt
What is the PIT Maneuver?
A tactical method used by law enforcement to force a fleeing vehicle to abruptly turn sideways to the direction of travel, causing the driver to lose control and stop. The maneuver involves the police vehicle making contact with the rear quarter of the suspect's car, specifically at the point where the back tire is attached, and then steering sharply in the same direction the suspect vehicle is moving. This action usually results in the pursued vehicle spinning out and coming to a stop, enabling the police to apprehend the suspect.
Why is the PIT Maneuver Used?
The primary purpose of the PIT maneuver is to end vehicle pursuits swiftly and safely. High-speed chases can be dangerous not only to the police and the fleeing suspects but also to the general public. By using the PIT maneuver, law enforcement aims to reduce the length of the pursuit, thereby lessening the potential risks associated with a prolonged chase.
Despite its potential to minimize danger, the use of the PIT maneuver is not without controversy. The technique can lead to accidents and injuries if not executed correctly. Thus, it's typically reserved for situations where the fleeing suspect poses a significant risk to public safety or has committed a serious offense. In many jurisdictions, officers are required to get approval from a supervisor before performing a PIT maneuver, reflecting the serious nature of the technique.
How is the PIT Maneuver Executed?
The PIT maneuver requires a high level of driving skill and precise timing. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of how it's typically executed:
The pursuing police vehicle pulls alongside the fleeing vehicle so that the front of the police car is aligned with the rear wheel area of the suspect's vehicle.
The officer then gently makes contact with the rear quarter panel of the suspect's car.
After establishing contact, the officer sharply turns into the same direction the suspect vehicle is moving, aiming to disrupt the car's balance and cause it to spin out.
The officer must then decelerate and steer their vehicle out of the path of the spinning car.
The PIT maneuver is a valuable tool for law enforcement, offering a means to terminate high-speed pursuits quickly and reduce associated risks. However, it's a technique that must be deployed judiciously and with a high level of skill to ensure the safety of all involved.
Its usage underscores the difficult and dangerous decisions law enforcement officers must make when dealing with suspects who choose to evade arrest in a vehicle.