Is a driver liable for the damage they cause during a police chase in Lansing?
Lansing, MI – There were local news reports out of the Lansing area that a car accident was caused by teenagers involved in a police chase [1].
Multiple vehicles damaged after crime spree
On April 10, 2025, a high-speed car chase involving five teenagers from Lansing, Michigan, culminated in a dramatic crash and arrests after crossing multiple counties. The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office initiated the pursuit on Eastbound I-96 in Howell Township, attempting to stop a vehicle reported stolen from Calhoun County. The vehicle, linked to several thefts in nearby communities, evaded police, sparking a dangerous chase.
The suspects exited I-96 into Brighton, where their vehicle struck a patrol car on a dead-end street while attempting to flee. Continuing onto Westbound I-96, the suspects hit two additional vehicles in Livingston County. Despite police deploying stop sticks, the vehicle continued into Ingham County, ending in south Lansing near Cedar Street and Jolly Road. There, the stolen car crashed into multiple vehicles, rendering it inoperable. All five occupants fled on foot but were swiftly apprehended.
During the chase, police observed the suspects discarding two stolen handguns, which were later recovered. The group consisted of a 19-year-old driver, now held at Livingston County Jail, and four passengers aged 15, 16, 17, and 18, all Lansing residents. The 15-year-old, subject to a juvenile apprehension order, was transferred to a juvenile facility in Ingham County. The 18-year-old was detained for violating bond conditions from a prior case, while the others were released to their parents.
No injuries were reported from the crashes. The incident underscores ongoing concerns about juvenile crime and stolen vehicles in the region, with authorities continuing to investigate the group’s involvement in related thefts. The recovered firearms and the suspects’ actions during the chase are likely to result in multiple charges across jurisdictions.
Can a person who was involved in a police chase be sued for causing an accident and damage in Michigan?
In Michigan, a person involved in a police chase can indeed be sued for causing an accident and resulting damages, depending on the circumstances and applicable laws. Civil liability may arise if the individual’s actions directly caused harm, property damage, or injuries during the chase. Michigan’s legal framework, including tort law and specific statutes, governs such cases, balancing the responsibility of the fleeing suspect with the conduct of pursuing law enforcement.
Under Michigan’s no-fault insurance system, individuals injured in a car accident typically seek compensation through their own insurance for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. However, for significant property damage or severe injuries—such as those exceeding the no-fault threshold (e.g., serious impairment or permanent disfigurement)—a victim can sue the at-fault driver for non-economic damages like pain and suffering. In a police chase scenario, the fleeing driver, like the teens in the Mid-Michigan case, could be held liable if their reckless actions, such as speeding or striking vehicles, caused the crash. Evidence, including police reports and witness statements, would be critical in establishing fault.
Additionally, Michigan law allows lawsuits for intentional torts. If the suspect deliberately caused damage—e.g., ramming vehicles to evade capture—victims could pursue claims for intentional misconduct, potentially bypassing no-fault restrictions. Property owners, such as those whose vehicles were damaged in the Lansing crash, could also sue for repair costs or replacement value.
However, complications arise when considering police conduct. Michigan’s governmental immunity laws may shield law enforcement from liability unless their pursuit was grossly negligent, such as continuing a high-speed chase in a densely populated area without justification. Courts often evaluate whether the suspect’s actions were the proximate cause of the damage or if police tactics contributed significantly.
Victims may face challenges recovering damages if the suspect lacks assets or insurance. In such cases, uninsured motorist coverage or claims against other parties (e.g., if the vehicle was stolen but negligently left accessible) might be explored. Consulting an accident attorney specializing in Michigan tort law is essential to navigate these complexities and pursue compensation effectively.
Accident lawyers in Michigan
The Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates is an experienced firm that handles all issues related to accident and personal injury cases. They can provide professional representation throughout the course of a lawsuit.
USAttorneys.com is a referral service that offers free consultations. Anyone who needs to speak with a lawyer in their city can call 800-672-3103
Firm contact info:
Law Offices of Christopher Trainor & Associates
9750 Highland Road, White Lake, MI 48386
248-886-8650
https://www.michiganlegalcenter.com/
Sources:
- https://www.wilx.com/2025/04/10/police-group-teens-arrested-after-mid-michigan-car-chase-crash/
