Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
Chicago Streets and the Scope of Passenger Rights
Chicago traffic stops are part of everyday life, whether you’re riding along in a car through Wicker Park, Austin, or the Near South Side. Police presence is high in many of these neighborhoods, and officers often stop cars for minor equipment violations or alleged moving infractions. What begins as a simple traffic matter can quickly escalate into something far more serious, not just for the driver but for passengers as well.
Illinois law recognizes that both drivers and passengers are seized under the Fourth Amendment when police initiate a stop. This means passengers cannot freely leave until the stop is complete. Officers may attempt to use this restriction to question passengers, request identification, or justify searches. Too often, passengers feel trapped into giving consent or answering questions that later lead to criminal charges.
