The Supreme Court has now stated that searching a car for evidence of contraband is not allowed without a warrant, unless the search is for evidence of the crime for which the person was arrested for.  It used to be that the police may search a vehicle that a person was driving in.  It was called “Search incident to arrest.”  While this change may not have a large impact on driver’s charged with DUI, It will have a large impact on those Driving While their Licenses were suspended, who also carried contraband.

In the case of a DUI, it would be reasonable for the police to search for evidence of drinking while driving, or transportation of open alcohol.  However, it is not reasonable for police to rummage through your car–because they wouldn’t find more evidence of Driving While License Suspended.

With the Supreme Court we have now, we should consider ourselves lucky to get any protection of a person’s privacy, and right to keep the police out.