Walk It Through: The Chase
A risk consciously disregarded, a felony for fleeing, and obstructing an arrest.
A young driver weaves through traffic at high speed on a busy road at night.
Two things a person in this spot might do. Picking one shows what the law says about it.
One driver and one stop. Careless driving, great bodily harm, and risk of death in obstructing are not worked through here.
A practice walkthrough, not a prediction of how any real one will go. Legal information, not legal advice.
Words this turns on
Terms with a legal meaning that is narrower than the everyday one. Each links to the definition and the authority behind it.
- Careless drivingOperating or halting a vehicle carelessly or heedlessly in disregard of others' rights, or in a way that endangers or is likely to endanger property or anyone. A misdemeanor.
- Gross misdemeanorAny crime that is not a felony or misdemeanor. Where no other penalty is set, it carries up to 364 days, a $3,000 fine, or both.
- Fleeing a peace officerFleeing or trying to flee in a motor vehicle from a peace officer lawfully on duty, including speeding up, turning off the lights or refusing to stop after a signal. A felony.
- Obstructing legal processIntentionally obstructing, resisting or interfering with a peace officer performing official duties, or obstructing an arrest. Up to 90 days, a $1,000 fine, or both, and more with force or violence.