CALL 24/7Two people were injured Friday morning when a driver fled police at approximately 8 a.m., colliding with another vehicle in the process.
What Events Led to the Crash on Walker Road in Windsor?
A Windsor police officer tried to pull over a driver in the 3300 block of Walker Road, but instead of stopping, the driver sped away, crashing into another vehicle on a nearby street.
The Walker Road collision, which occurred near Foster Avenue, left both vehicles significantly damaged and two people injured. Police reported the injuries as non-life-threatening. Due to the severity of the crash, Ontario’s Special Investigations Unit invoked its mandate and stepped in to investigate.
What Is the SIU and Why Is It Looking Into This Crash?
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is a civilian oversight body that operates independently of police in Ontario. It steps in when police are involved in incidents that result in either serious injury or death. This unit answers to the Attorney General — not to any police service.
When the SIU invokes its mandate, as it did here, it takes full control of the investigation. Officers involved must cooperate. The goal is an independent accounting of what happened and why.
Its presence in this case means the circumstances leading up to this crash — including the decision to pursue a fleeing driver on a busy Windsor street — are being examined by people who have no stake in the outcome.
Are SIU Investigators Qualified?
Yes. Although a civilian unit, the individuals on this force must meet certain mandatory qualifications. Many have a background in policing or forensic investigation.
Does an SIU Investigation Mean Police Did Something Wrong?
No. An SIU investigation doesn’t mean the officer did anything wrong. It means the circumstances — a police stop, a pursuit, a serious collision — legally require independent civilian oversight.
How Does an SIU Investigation Affect a Crash Victim’s Claim?
Innocent parties injured in collisions involving fleeing drivers still have the right to pursue compensation. But an SIU investigation can significantly complicate and delay an injury claim.
What victims injured in a crash being investigated by the SIU should know:
- SIU investigations can take up to 120 days — or longer
- An SIU investigation does NOT pause the clock for your claim — you still have just two years from the crash
- You can — and should — contact a knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Windsor without delay to protect your claim during this process.
- Insurance companies may refuse to offer any settlement — or be much more likely to offer low settlements — until the investigation concludes.
- You must still notify your insurance company about the incident without delay.
If you are the victim of a collision — even in this situation — you still have the right to seek compensation for your medical treatment, lost income, and the broader impact your crash has had on your life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Police Pursuit Crash Claims
Can I pursue a claim if I was hit by a driver fleeing police?
Yes. If you did not contribute to the collision and were hit by a fleeing driver. you have every right to seek compensation. The driver who fled may bear liability. Depending on how the pursuit was conducted, the police service may as well. These cases are complex, but they are absolutely pursuable with experienced legal representation.
Does the SIU investigation affect my civil claim?
Yes. An SIU investigation can delay your claim significantly. The investigation can take up to 120 days or longer, and they control evidence during that time. Its findings could provide critical evidence to your claim. An experienced personal injury lawyer will monitor the SIU’s investigation closely and even take legal steps to require access to evidence.
Can I sue a police service in Ontario?
Yes. Police services can be held civilly liable when their actions contribute to or cause injury. Strict notice requirements apply to claims against public authorities, often with much shorter deadlines than standard limitation periods. Getting legal advice early is essential.
My injuries were called non-life-threatening. Can I still make a claim?
Yes – absolutely. Non-life-threatening is a medical classification, not a legal one. Non-life-threatening injuries can still be severe, requiring surgery, rehabilitation, or extended time away from work. These damages can form the basis of a significant claim — no matter how they were categorized at the scene.
Do I need a lawyer if the SIU is investigating the crash that injured me?
Yes. These claims are more complex and can be significantly delayed. You need an experienced lawyer to protect your interests and fight for the fair compensation you deserve after being injured in a crash you did not cause.
We Are Committed to Helping the Injured and Their Families in Windsor
When someone makes a choice to flee police on a busy Windsor street, they don’t just take a risk for themselves. They risk causing harm to everyone else around them.
If you or someone you care about was hurt in this crash, we want to help. Greg Monforton & Partners has a proven history — 45 years — of showing up for injured victims in Windsor-Essex. We have extensive experience, and we know how to handle cases where the circumstances are complicated and the stakes are high.
Not sure if you have a case? We offer a free, no-risk consultation. When we represent you, there are also no upfront fees to pay. We only get paid if you do.
Call our trusted Windsor law firm to get started today. We would be honoured to help you. (866) 320-4770
