Responding to calls for service efficiently is one of a police officer's primary duties, but public safety remains a priority. Inappropriate responses to calls for service can create circumstances in which the safety of the officers and public is compromised. Responding to calls, even under emergency circumstances, does not excuse law enforcement officers from operating their vehicles without reasonable care.

This resource is intended to provide guidance to law enforcement to make informed decisions in their approach to vehicular response to calls for service, depending on the nature of the call, context, and other varying situational factors. Considerations in responding to calls for service should balance the exigency of the nature of the call with public safety, traffic laws, and driving conditions.