Every day, thousands of Florida drivers are pulled over. Understanding your constitutional rights during a traffic stop can protect you from unlawful searches.
What the Fourth Amendment Protects
The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. Officers need reasonable suspicion to stop you and probable cause or consent to search.
Your Rights
You must provide identification and follow lawful orders. You may refuse consent to a vehicle search, refuse to answer incriminating questions, and refuse field sobriety tests.
When Can Police Search Without Consent?
- Probable cause
- Search incident to arrest
- Inventory search of impounded vehicle
- K-9 alert
If Your Rights Are Violated
Do not physically resist. Clearly state you do not consent. Document everything. Contact an attorney immediately. Evidence from illegal searches can be suppressed.
Attorney Sonny Im spent years as a Florida Prosecutor understanding how law enforcement conducts searches. Call (727) 939-8200.