Can the police take your vehicle in an emergency?

Question

If the police are on pursuit of a very dangerous suspect and they happen to need a vehicle, and don't have access to their own at that moment, are they allowed to take a vehicle of a citizen without permission?

"Sometimes doin' the right thing ain't doin' the right thing"

Answer 1

Only in the movies.

Answer 2

yep they have the right to do this depending on the situation.

i havent heard of such thing happening but its possible that they can, but they do need the owners permission.

Answer 3

they do it all the time on movies

Answer 4

yes they are within their rights to do this.

Answer 5

They cannot without the owners consent.

Answer 6

The Supreme Court has upheld the federal government's power to commandeer private property but imposed strict limits. In United States v. Russell, the court noted

Check out this site for a complete answer:http://www.straightdope.com/mailbag/mcom...

Answer 7

I've never heard of any law enforcement officer commandeering a vehicle, nor am I aware of any laws allowing them to do so.

It simply does not happen.

I checked the links in  jake69's answer below, and could not find anything that addresses your question. United States v. Russell  is a drug case, and Blackman v. Cincinnati has to do with using a police car for  personal errands.

Answer 8

I saw it on TV.... it must be true. Right? Everything in Hollywood is true.

I don't see how you can stop them. I believe they can.

Answer 9

Yes.