Does a PIT maneuver stall engine?

Answered by Robert Flynn

A PIT (Pursuit Intervention Technique) maneuver can stall the engine of a fleeing vehicle. The purpose of a PIT maneuver is to disable the fleeing vehicle by causing it to lose traction, spin, and ultimately stall the engine. This maneuver is commonly used by law enforcement agencies to quickly and efficiently bring a pursuit to an end.

When performing a PIT maneuver, the police vehicle strategically strikes the rear side of the fleeing vehicle, causing it to lose control. By striking the rear side of the vehicle, the police vehicle effectively disrupts the balance and stability of the fleeing vehicle, forcing it into a spin. As the vehicle spins, the driver loses control and the engine may stall due to the sudden change in momentum and direction.

It’s important to note that the objective of a PIT maneuver is not to ram or beat the fleeing vehicle into submission. The goal is to disable the vehicle in a controlled manner, minimizing the risk of injury to both the occupants of the fleeing vehicle and law enforcement officers involved in the pursuit. The technique is aimed at swiftly and safely immobilizing the vehicle, bringing the pursuit to a quick and controlled end.

The success of a PIT maneuver in stalling the engine of the fleeing vehicle depends on various factors, including the type of vehicle, its speed, road conditions, and the skill of the officer performing the maneuver. If executed correctly, the abrupt change in momentum and the loss of control caused by the PIT maneuver can lead to the engine stalling.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that the outcome of a PIT maneuver can vary in each situation. There may be instances where the engine does not stall immediately or at all, depending on several factors such as the condition of the vehicle, its mechanical functioning, and the angle and force of the impact. Additionally, some modern vehicles have advanced engine control systems that may prevent the engine from stalling even during a PIT maneuver.

A PIT maneuver is designed to make a fleeing vehicle lose traction, spin, and potentially stall the engine. While the objective is not to cause harm or damage, it is a technique used by law enforcement to quickly and effectively disable a vehicle during a pursuit. The success of stalling the engine through a PIT maneuver depends on various factors and can vary in each situation.