MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

In Maryland v. Wilson, what authority do officers have regarding vehicle passengers?

1. To inspect their vehicles for contraband

2. To place them under arrest without evidence

3. To order them out of a vehicle

4. To search their bags for weapons

The correct answer is: To order them out of a vehicle

In Maryland v. Wilson, the ruling established that law enforcement officers have the authority to order passengers out of a vehicle during a lawful traffic stop. This is rooted in the concern for officer safety, as being able to control the situation by having all individuals exit the vehicle allows officers to better assess any potential threats. The decision recognizes that when officers make a lawful stop, the passengers, just like the driver, can be ordered out of the vehicle. This authority is not contingent upon evidence of wrongdoing by the passengers but is part of the officers' discretion in managing the safety and security of the encounter. The context of this ruling emphasizes that the authority to order passengers out is granted to ensure a safer interaction, allowing officers to maintain control over the situation during a traffic stop.