ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions about the rules of the road every week, helping Orlando-area residents become better drivers by being better educated.
Troy, of Winter Park, can you define the term “plain view” in connection with traffic stops or incidents.
"This is a great question, because knowing the rules of how law enforcement officers conduct business eliminates arguments on the side of the road," Trooper Steve said. "When speaking with a law enforcement officer on the side of the road or during an encounter, there is no expectation of privacy."
[ASK TROOPER STEVE: Send safety question to Trooper Steve]
For example, if a driver is pulled over and talking to an officer, whatever he or she can can see is fair game.
"This allows police to constantly be aware of violations," Trooper Steve said. "If they observed an open container in the car or drug paraphernalia on the floor, the officer can take the traffic stop investigation further without a warrant because they now have reasonable suspicion a crime is being committed."
If you have a traffic question for Trooper Steve, submit it here.