Recent Headline Review – January 2023
Estimated Read Time: 3 Minutes
Our recent headline review highlights common off-duty blind spots. Officers working off-duty jobs become subject to many risks, usually the same risks as on-duty assignments. The difference is the lack of workers’ compensation, liability, and job tracking.
1/19 Former Southport Police Chief Pleads Guilty to Misdemeanor Charges
A former Chief of Police pled guilty after being accused of working an off-duty job while reporting to his regular police duty at the same time. This type of situation can leave innocent people at risk. The officer was not present to protect civilians or property.
Off-Duty Blind Spot
Since it is common for officers to work off-duty jobs, there needs to be a way to discern when they are working or how long they’ve worked. A third-party administrative company can help manage officers’ hours, preventing overlapping jobs, excessive hours worked, and misreported time worked.
1/8 Accused Shoplifter Tries to Run Over Off-Duty Officer
An officer working off-duty at a shopping center ended up in a dangerous situation when a robbery suspect tried to run him over. The officer did not get seriously injured but had to fire his gun, leaving a bullet hole in the suspect’s car.
Off-Duty Blind Spot
Seemingly simple off-duty jobs still carry a risk. Officers can get injured or killed and may need to use deadly force to deal with a suspect. All these situations require liability coverage and workers’ compensation to ensure all parties are protected, especially the off-duty officer.
12/29 Family of Off-Duty Officer Killed in Wreck Sues Alleged Drunk Driver, Austin Bar
An alleged drunk driver took the life of an officer working off-duty. The officer was controlling traffic when the driver hit him. The family is suing the driver and the bar that served the alcohol.
Off-Duty Blind Spot
When an officer is injured or killed while working an off-duty job, liability can become a problem. The business hiring the officer, the perpetrator, and the agency may be held responsible for the financial damages. Liability coverage for businesses and agencies can reduce financial fallout and ensure families of injured or deceased officers get taken care of.
12/12 Man Suspected of Driving Drunk Crashes into Off-Duty Officer’s Vehicle, Police Say
A suspected drunk driver hit a police officer’s car as he worked an off-duty job at a construction site. The officer was not injured. However, the police car had to get towed due to severe damage.
Off-Duty Blind Spot
Accidents during off-duty employment can result in unexpected injuries. Thankfully this officer walked away without an injury or medical bills. A third-party, comprehensive solution can protect all parties involved by providing liability coverage and workers’ compensation.