Weigh stations: Can a search of the cab be done?

Question

Our company trucks have to scale at weigh stations and once in awhile we get pulled aside for a routine inspection. Our vehicles are small, so this is quite annoying (Chevy 3500 and a little cargo trailer). I know that to verify that the bill-of-lading is accurate, the cargo areas can be searched.

The question is: In most states, does the officer need permission to go rummaging through luggage and personal effects stored in the cab?

Answer 1

only if he had reason to search your personal posessions, can he search them.  and even then, unless he has a warrant, i think he needs your permission.

Answer 2

The 4th amendment to the constitution protects you from unlawful search and seizure.  Typically, if an officer has probably cause to believe that you have unlawful contriband in your vehicle, they can and are legally allowed to search your vehicle.  However, without probably cause, an officer is only allowed to search the vehicle with what is in plain view, meaning- they cannot search the truck or other belongings such as luggage without a warrant or probable cause in good faith.  Now this applies to vehicle stopped by an officer.  I really am not sure the of the laws regarding truck inspection sites and their procedures.  However, I am sure that the 4th amendment protects you to the same extent.  Maybe you could contact your local police department and question.