PIT
Within this page, you will know what a PIT is and how to execute one.
The PIT maneuver, or Precision Immobilization Technique, is one of the many tactical maneuvers we use in the field. It is used to terminate pursuits when the deputies want it to end. You must consider many conditions before you go for a PIT. A well-deployed PIT can cause the driver of the vehicle you are pursuing to spin out and stop, cause the driver to be dazed, and cause the deputies to go in for the arrest.
There are three steps to executing a PIT.
The deputy gets behind the vehicle they intend to use the PIT. They offset themselves to the left or right side of the vehicle.
The deputy matches the target vehicle's speed and then hits the rear panel vehicle just behind the rear wheel using the patrol vehicle's right or left bumper.
Once contact has been made, the deputy turns the steering wheel toward the target and immediately turns the wheel back to the direction of travel.
When this happens, it causes the vehicle's tires to lose traction with the road, which causes the vehicle to spin out. Then, the pursuing deputies can block in the driver and go in for the arrest. Sometimes, the PIT does not work, and the driver can regain traction and continue fleeing. In this case, the PIT failed, and you must keep pursuing it and try again later if possible.
You must have the right conditions before taking a PIT. Failure to meet these conditions will result in consequences.
There must be little to no traffic.
There must be at least 2+ deputies in the pursuit.
You must have a rambar.
The conditions of the road must be ideal. (EX: No ice or potholes.)
A supervisor+ must authorize the PIT.
There must be no minors in the vehicle.
The LSO understands that you may not have someone else with you or a supervisor on duty while on duty. If that is the case, you may go for a PIT with only yourself, and if there is no supervisor to approve the PIT, then you may use your judgment to determine if a PIT should be utilized.
If you can not do a PIT, there are many other ways of terminating a pursuit.
You can have another deputy, or LEO set up a trap with spike strips or stop sticks.
You can set up a roadblock to stop the fleeing suspect.
There are many advantages to using the PIT maneuver.
Immediate termination of the ongoing pursuit.
When done correctly, there is minimal damage.
Deputies determine when and where the pursuit will come to an end.
No extra equipment is needed.
The PIT allows us to effectively end pursuits when we want. Without it, pursuits could continue and possibly cause death or injury.
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