The Texas Supreme Court ruled that the cities of Austin and Houston are not liable for lawsuits filed by individuals injured in police chase-related crashes.
The ruling, issued after two separate cases were brought against the cities, determined that governmental immunity protects the cities and their officers from legal action under the Texas Tort Claims Act.
The lawsuits stemmed from high-speed police chases in Austin and Houston that resulted in accidents causing injuries and property damage.
Plaintiffs argued that the officers’ actions during the chases were reckless and led to preventable harm. However, the court found that the circumstances did not meet the legal criteria to waive governmental immunity.
Governmental immunity, a legal principle that shields government entities and employees from lawsuits in most cases, allows public officials to perform their duties without fear of litigation.
The court’s decision affirms this protection for Austin and Houston, stating that the officers acted within their official capacities during the incidents.
The ruling resolves legal disputes over the liability of government entities in cases involving police chases. It sets a precedent for how similar cases will be interpreted in the future and clarifies the boundaries of governmental immunity in Texas.
The plaintiffs cannot proceed with their claims against the cities. This decision underscores the legal framework surrounding governmental immunity and its implications for public safety operations involving police officers.