To successfully operate in a pursuit, what must an officer possess?

For an officer to successfully operate in a pursuit, possessing the proper attitude and mindset is essential. This encompasses having the right mental approach to high-stress situations that often accompany pursuits. Officers are required to remain calm, focused, and composed to make quick decisions effectively. This mindset includes understanding the risks involved for the officer, other motorists, and the public.

In high-pressure situations, such as a vehicle pursuit, decisions can significantly affect the outcome. A positive and proactive attitude allows officers to prioritize safety, assess their surroundings, and remain aware of the dynamics during the pursuit. The officer's ability to maintain a clear mindset ultimately influences their capability to manage the pursuit safely and effectively, which is critical in ensuring successful law enforcement operations.

Possessing permission from a supervisor or undergoing extensive training can be valuable; however, they do not substitute for the necessity of the right mindset during real-time pursuits. Similarly, while proper shuffle steering might be a technique used in vehicle operation, the broader category of attitude and mindset encompasses all driving skills and situational awareness needed to conduct a pursuit safely and effectively.