True or False: If you fail to turn on lights and sirens during a pursuit and damage or injury occurs, you as the officer will be liable.

The assertion that failing to activate lights and sirens during a pursuit can make an officer liable for damages or injuries is rooted in the duty of care that law enforcement professionals are expected to uphold. When responding to emergencies, officers must follow established protocols and procedures, which typically dictate that lights and sirens be used during high-speed pursuits. These measures are not only for the safety of the public but also to signal to other drivers and pedestrians that an emergency vehicle is in operation, effectively managing the flow of traffic and minimizing risks.

If an officer doesn't activate lights and sirens while engaging in a pursuit, it can be viewed as a failure to follow proper procedure. This negligence might lead to accidents or injuries, for which the officer could be held liable. Liability arises from the expectation that officers will take appropriate actions to ensure public safety. Therefore, when lights and sirens are not used, and an incident occurs, this lack of adherence to protocol could be a determining factor in assessing liability and accountability for any resulting damage or injuries.

In contrast, options indicating false or conditional liability do not fully capture the responsibility officers have in maintaining safety during pursuits, which highlights the importance of adhering to established emergency response protocols.