Traffic stops are one of the most common encounters between the public and the police. However, simply being pulled over for a minor traffic violation doesn’t automatically grant an officer the right to search your car.
Understanding the boundaries of your rights when interacting with law enforcement during traffic stops can be vital. There are several scenarios in which a traffic officer can search your vehicle, and it’s crucial to be informed about each one.
Can a Police Officer Search Your Car After a Traffic Stop?
Say that a police officer pulls you over for running a red light or driving over the speed limit. Although the officer may have a valid reason to halt your vehicle, it doesn’t automatically provide him or her with the authority to conduct a search. For a police officer to search your vehicle after a traffic violation, there must be a founded suspicion that you might be involved in a more serious criminal activity, or that you pose a potential threat by being armed and dangerous.
Can a Police Officer Search Your Car After an Arrest?
If you’re arrested during a traffic stop, an officer can conduct a search of your vehicle—but only under specific conditions. Generally, the officer may search the car if he or she believes it contains evidence related to the crime for which you were arrested.
For instance, if you are taken into custody for driving under the influence, an officer might search the vehicle for open alcohol containers or drugs. Another instance is to ensure his or her safety by checking for weapons if you’re detained.
If the arrest occurs for an unrelated reason, the officer does not have permission to search your vehicle. For example, say that you are arrested for driving without a license. If an officer then searches your car and finds an open container of alcohol, this evidence would not be admissible in court as it was found during an illegal search.
Can a Police Officer Search Your Car If You Give Consent?
Remember, you have the right to refuse a search if the officer doesn’t have probable cause to believe that you have committed a crime. However, if you do grant permission for a search, the officer is allowed to search your vehicle. Keep in mind that any evidence found during this search could be used against you in court.
Can a Police Officer Search Your Car After It Is Impounded?
If law enforcement decides to impound your vehicle after a traffic stop, they have the right to conduct an inventory search. This search is primarily to list the items in the car and is not necessarily aimed at finding evidence of a crime. However, if they come across any illegal items during this process, they can use it as evidence in a future criminal case.
What to Do If You Are the Victim of an Unlawful Vehicle Search
While police officers have certain rights when it comes to searching vehicles, there are limits. If you believe your vehicle was searched unlawfully, it is important to remain calm and seek help as soon as possible. Our personal injury attorneys in McAllen can help you fight against these illegal actions and hold the police department responsible for these unlawful actions. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible after the incident to discuss your legal options.
