They do actually show them getting away, but most times are down to the police backing off to avoid pushing the criminal too hard and endangering the public - basically not worth the risk.

I think the trained police are excellent drivers, the beat bobbies do drive like muppets round by me constantly in 2nd gear and ragging the shit out of the cars for no reason

But, have no doubt when they get given a powerful motor, they must get a little carried away, and if your on the road 8 hours a day day in day out, the odds are you will twang the odd one.