Close-up of a judge's gavel and handcuffs, symbolizing law enforcement and legal consequences under Valentine’s Law in Missouri. This law increases penalties for fleeing police, aiming to reduce reckless driving and improve road safety

Valentine’s Law: Increased Penalties for Fleeing Police and Its Impact on Missouri Drivers

September 6, 2024/Kendall Law Group LLC

At Kendall Law Group, we have dedicated over 30 years to advocating for individuals injured in auto accidents caused by negligent drivers. We understand the life-altering impact these accidents can have and are committed to helping victims receive the compensation they need. When reckless drivers flee from the police, they put lives at risk, and we are passionate about holding those drivers accountable. Our firm focuses on protecting the rights of accident victims, ensuring they get the justice they deserve while keeping Kansas City drivers informed of vital safety updates.

Overview of Valentine’s Law

Valentine’s Law, recently enacted in Missouri, took effect on August 28, 2024, and is a crucial step in addressing the rising dangers posed by high-speed police chases. The law named for St. Louis County Police Officer Antonio Valentine, who lost his life in a high-speed chase in 2021, creates a new offense “aggravated fleeing from an officer, and specifically targets reckless drivers who flee from law enforcement, increasing penalties to protect both police officers and the public.

Purpose of Valentine’s Law

The primary goal of Valentine’s Law is to reduce the number of high-speed chases, which have become a significant public safety concern in Missouri. These dangerous pursuits often lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. By increasing the consequences for fleeing drivers, the law aims to function as a strong deterrent, improving overall road safety.

Punishment Under Valentine’s Law

The punishments for aggravated fleeing a stop vary based on the outcome of the fleeing:

  • Class D Felony: If the person fleeing creates a substantial risk of serious physical injury or death, with a minimum of one year of imprisonment before eligibility for parole or probation.
  • Class B Felony: If the fleeing resulted in physical injury to another person, the offense escalates to a Class B felony, which carries more severe penalties, including longer prison sentences.
  • Class A Felony: If the fleeing results in death, the offense becomes a Class A felony, which can lead to life imprisonment or a minimum of 10 years in prison.

The Rise of High-Speed Chases in Missouri

Missouri has seen an alarming increase in drivers fleeing police during traffic stops, leading to high-speed chases that put both motorists and pedestrians at risk. According to a study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Kansas and Missouri are among the top states with the highest rates of fatal police pursuits. Between 2017 and 2021, 1.79% of fatal crashes in Kansas were tied to police chases, placing Kansas third in the nation, while Missouri ranked sixth at 1.6%.

A nine-month investigation further highlighted the scale of this issue within the Kansas City metro, where an average of more than three police chases occur daily. In 2022, these chases led to more than 150 crashes, causing 51 injuries, with 33% of injuries reported in the City of Independence alone.

Police pursuits in Kansas City frequently reach speeds exceeding 100 mph, yet only 56% of law enforcement agencies in the metro have restrictions on when such chases are allowed. This lack of standardized pursuit policies has contributed to at least four fatalities in 2024 alone. For example, in January, both a suspect and a bystander were killed in a crash on Interstate 435, and similar fatalities occurred in February and March from chases that ended in fatal collisions.

The Dangers of High-Speed Chases

High-speed police chases are inherently dangerous, often resulting in severe accidents, injuries, or fatalities. When a driver flees from law enforcement, they may engage in reckless behaviors such as excessive speeding, running red lights, or swerving into oncoming traffic. These pursuits can lead to catastrophic collisions, not only involving the fleeing driver but also innocent bystanders, pedestrians, and other motorists.

Some of the key dangers include:

  • Public and Pedestrian Safety: High-speed chases in urban areas pose a significant threat to pedestrians and bystanders. Drivers attempting to evade law enforcement are more likely to ignore traffic signals, swerve onto sidewalks, or cross into pedestrian areas, creating a dangerous environment for anyone nearby.
  • Accidents and Collisions: High-speed chases increase the risk of serious collisions due to the unpredictable behavior of the fleeing driver. When speeds are excessive, drivers lose control of their vehicles more easily, leading to crashes that may result in fatalities or life-altering injuries. Additionally, innocent bystanders and other vehicles on the road are put in harm’s way as they are unprepared for the sudden, reckless maneuvers of a fleeing driver.
  • Emotional Trauma and Loss: Victims of accidents involving high-speed chases, as well as witnesses, may suffer emotional trauma due to the sudden and violent nature of these incidents. Families of those injured or killed in these accidents endure significant grief and loss, compounded by the knowledge that the incident could have been avoided.
  • Law Enforcement and Civilian Risks: Police officers are also at risk during these pursuits. High-speed chases can result in injuries or fatalities for officers if their vehicles are involved in accidents. Additionally, the pursuit of fleeing drivers can lead to dangerous situations for other motorists who may be caught in the middle of the chase.

How Valentine’s Law Addresses Road Safety

Valentine’s Law introduces stricter penalties for drivers who attempt to evade police, thereby reducing the incentive to flee. The law increases fines, jail sentences, and other repercussions, aiming to decrease the number of high-speed chases and the accidents that result from them.

Key Elements of Valentine’s Law

  • Heightened Fines for Evading Law Enforcement: Drivers who attempt to flee from police will face substantially higher fines under Valentine’s Law. The financial penalties are designed to deter drivers from engaging in risky behaviors that can lead to severe accidents.
  • Increased Jail Sentences and Penalties: In addition to fines, Valentine’s Law introduces longer jail sentences for those caught fleeing from police. These harsher penalties reflect the seriousness of endangering public safety through reckless driving.
  • Charges for Accidents, Injuries, or Deaths: If a fleeing driver causes an accident, injuries, or fatalities, the law allows for even more severe charges, including vehicular manslaughter and aggravated assault. These escalated charges ensure that offenders are held accountable for the full extent of the harm they cause.
  • Vehicle Forfeiture for Offenders: Valentine’s Law also introduces the possibility of vehicle forfeiture for offenders. If a vehicle is used to evade law enforcement, it may be confiscated, adding an extra layer of financial and legal repercussions.

The Impact of Valentine’s Law on Drivers

  • Deterrence for Reckless Drivers: The stricter penalties under Valentine’s Law are expected to significantly deter drivers from attempting to flee from police. By making the consequences more severe, the law aims to reduce the number of high-speed chases, improving road safety for everyone.
  • Legal Implications for Drivers Fleeing Police: Drivers who flee from police under the new law will face not only fines and jail time but also a permanent mark on their criminal record. These legal implications can affect employment, insurance rates, and personal freedom.
  • The Role of Law Enforcement Under Valentine’s Law: Law enforcement officers in Missouri will now have stronger legal backing when dealing with fleeing drivers. Valentine’s Law empowers police officers to pursue harsher penalties for offenders, ensuring that those who endanger public safety are held accountable.

Protecting Victims of Reckless Drivers Under Valentine’s Law

Compensation for Medical Bills and Lost Wages

For victims injured by reckless drivers attempting to flee law enforcement, Valentine’s Law provides a solid foundation for seeking compensation. Victims may be entitled to damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses incurred because of the accident.

Missouri law protects the rights of victims involved in accidents caused by fleeing drivers. Those injured have the right to pursue legal action to recover damages from the at-fault party.

Valentine’s Law can significantly strengthen personal injury claims by setting clear legal standards for aggravated fleeing, a behavior that often results in high-speed chases. In personal injury cases, this law helps establish fault more easily by defining the reckless actions of drivers who evade police, thereby increasing the likelihood of securing compensation for victims. Since Valentine’s Law emphasizes the dangers and severity of fleeing law enforcement, it bolsters the legal foundation for claims involving accidents caused by such behavior, making it easier to pursue damages for injuries or fatalities.

If a fleeing driver has injured you, seeking legal representation is critical. A skilled personal injury attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.

The Role of Personal Injury Lawyers

  • Importance of Legal Action in Fleeing Driver Cases: In cases involving fleeing drivers, legal action is essential to hold the negligent party accountable. Victims may face significant financial burdens due to medical bills and lost wages, and pursuing a personal injury claim is often the best way to recover these costs.
  • Building a Strong Case for Compensation: An experienced personal injury lawyer will gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and build a strong compensation case. This can include medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony to prove the extent of your injuries and the liability of the fleeing driver.

Why Choose Kendall Law Group for Fleeing Driver Accidents?

  • Over 30 Years Helping Those Seriously Injured in Auto Accidents: At Kendall Law Group, we have over 30 years of experience helping victims of auto accidents get their lives back on track. We focus on fighting for the rights of those injured by negligent drivers, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
  • Thorough Investigation and Case Building: Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations to build the strongest possible case for your claim. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to ensure that every detail of your case is covered.
  • Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts in accident cases, but our experienced lawyers know how to negotiate effectively. We work tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation for our clients.
  • Skilled Litigation and Trial Attorneys: If your case goes to trial, our attorneys are skilled litigators with a proven track record of success. We fight aggressively in court to ensure that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

Steps to Take After an Accident Involving a Fleeing Driver

  • Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health should always come first after an accident. Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries appear minor.
  • Report the Accident to Law Enforcement: It is crucial to report the accident to law enforcement, especially if the other driver fled the scene. A police report will be an essential piece of evidence in your case.
  • Gather Evidence at the Scene: If possible, gather as much evidence as you can at the scene of the accident. This can include photos of the damage, witness contact information, and details about the fleeing driver’s vehicle.
  • Consult With a Personal Injury Attorney:  Consult with a skilled Kansas City auto accident injury lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney will help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim.

Kansas City Auto Accident Injury Trial Lawyers

If you have been injured in an accident involving a fleeing driver, Kendall Law Group is here to help. With over 30 years of experience, we are committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation at (816) 531-3100 or reach out HERE.

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