Pennsylvania v. Mimms (1977)
Overview
Pennsylvania v. Mimms addressed officer safety during traffic stops and established the legality of ordering a driver out of a vehicle.
During a lawful stop for expired plates, officers asked the driver to exit the car and noticed a bulge under his jacket, leading to discovery of a firearm.
Ruling
The Supreme Court ruled that ordering a driver out of a lawfully stopped vehicle does not violate the Fourth Amendment. The minimal intrusion on personal liberty is outweighed by legitimate officer safety concerns.
Legal Principle Established
“The order to get out of the car, issued after the driver was lawfully detained, was reasonable and thus permissible under the Fourth Amendment.”
Implication
This case set a nationwide standard allowing officers to control the movements of drivers for safety. Once outside the vehicle, any visible threat may justify further search or detention.
Quick Guide
- Officers may lawfully order drivers out of vehicles during traffic stops.
- Doing so is a standard safety measure, not an unlawful detention.
- Observing a visible weapon or bulge permits a Terry frisk or vehicle search.
- This case supports RP enforcement during high-risk or suspicious stops.