Blog

What is reasonable suspicion?

Posted by Eric Olson | Mar 10, 2015 | 0 Comments

Reasonable suspicion, otherwise known as reasonable articulable suspicion, is one of the most important clauses in all of traffic law. Why? Because according to the law, a police officer cannot pull you over unless the officer has reasonable suspicion of criminal activity.

The rule originates from the case of Terry vs. Ohio and such stops are sometimes referred to as a Terry stop. A police officer who pulls you over can list reasonable suspicion for a wide variety of behaviors. Under Minnesota DWI law, the following offenses can be used to pull over a motorist:

* Crossing the center lane or fog lines

* Equipment violations

* Lack of signaling

* Driving with burnt out headlight

* A license plate that is not illuminated

* Broken or non-working taillights

* Reckless driving

* Failure to signal

* Weaving inside the same lane

* Operation of a vehicle with a flat tire

If you have a case that involves a traffic stop, you and your attorney can challenge the basis of the stop to show the court that the officer did not have reasonable suspicion to pull you over.

Many people get reasonable suspicion confused with probable cause. But the two are very different. An officer needs reasonable suspicion to pull over your vehicle but probable cause is required to arrest a motorist for DWI or another crime.

If your case began with a traffic stop, it is imperative that you seek experienced legal counsel to review the validity of that stop. Contact Attorney Eric J. Olson for vigorous defense and unrivaled results.

About the Author

Eric Olson

Eric J. Olson has dedicated his career exclusively to criminal law, with a focus onDWI defense. For the past 16 years, Mr. Olson has developed a reputation in the legal community as an aggressive, compassionate advocate for his clients.

Comments

There are no comments for this post. Be the first and Add your Comment below.

Leave a Comment

Olson Defense, PLLC

Whether you need assistance evaluating your DWI or criminal case, guidance on a current situation or advice when the police are at your door, legal help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges or a DWI, contact Olson Defense. We are always glad to meet with you for a free consultation at our office, in the Twin Cities metro area, or any convenient location. If you find yourself in jail or any emergency situation, call Olson Defense before you talk to the police.