Police have the right to have California drivers pop their hood?

Question

Got pulled over the other day and made me pop the hood. Do we have rights not to open it? Or do they have the authority?

Answer 1

you have the right to not open it.  but at the same time, they have the right on suspicion to arrest you too.  its just like if they pull you over for drunk driving. you can decide to take their field test. or they can arrest you and you can take the test at the station.  you have your rights, and they have theirs.  its better to cooperate.

Answer 2

The answer is "it depends"

This is called a "search"

they have the right if they have "reasonable cause"

if something is sticking out of the bottom of your car, or they found drugs in the main section, or you are acting under the influence, this is reasonable cause

if they want to see it just because..thats not reasonable cause and you can say no thank you, or get a warrant

but if you make them mad and you say no..count on a ticket

up to you....

Answer 3

Maybe. If California provides for officers to inspect vehicles (as opposed to annual inspections), you may well have agreed to this when you applied for a license.