Automobiles may be searched without probable cause if officers possess a reasonable belief that the occupant is armed.

Question

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This is known as the "automobile exception" to the Fourth Amendment's probable cause requirement for searches. The Supreme Court has ruled that because cars are mobile and can quickly leave the jurisdiction of the officer, there is a reduced expectation of privacy in automobiles. Therefore, if officers have reason to believe that a person in a car is armed and dangerous, they may search the car without obtaining a warrant.

Automobiles May Be Searched Without Probable Cause If Officers Possess