Can the police conduct an automobile search at a traffic stop or sobriety checkpoint?

A valid automobile search should be founded on several factors, including a basis for the traffic stop, a basis for continuing a detention beyond the traffic stop, and finally, probable cause for the officer to search the vehicle. If a driver pulls up to a valid DUI checkpoint or sobriety checkpoint, then a valid basis for the traffic stop exists. To justify an automobile search, an officer must demonstrate reasonable suspicion, probable cause, or an exception to either of those components.

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