[branden]

I don't see how you could be detained or have your car towed for refusing a search or any requests beyond your name, driver's license, and insurance. Maybe the officer could fabricate a traffic charge, which you could contest. (I'll agree you're likely screwed there - when it comes to traffic infractions you're guilty until proven innocent.) The officer might decide he smells something and force a search which makes you late for an appointment. Unfortunate for sure, and spiteful on the officer's part. But I don't think this reaches the level of martyrdom, and it'd be worth the shot of pride I get from defending my rights (though I understand not everyone would feel that way).

Am I missing something? What else could a cop do that doesn't require documented evidence of wrongdoing? I suppose Chicago-level corruption could wreck your life, and if that's the environment you're in then it's probably best to keep your head down. And take part in local government, or consider moving.

[rdtsc]

They can fabricate a charge. There are enough catch-all charges : "interfering with official business", "obstruction of justice", "looking suspicious" (my friend got a ticket for "suspicious behavior" in one of the mid-Western states!).

Your tires could seem to be too bold, your windshield could have a crack, your turn light might not work properly. Then the cop start "smelling drugs" that are not there (police camera don't have smell detectors!). He might decide you need to a DUI test. You might be to close to a drug or prostitution area -- so just that lets them arrest you. He thinks your license if fake, so he detains you to take you to the station to establish your identity.

If he detains or arrests you, your car is towed. You don't show up for work, your family is worried about you. Basically, you cannot win. You can only lose after you encounter a cop.

I guess what I am saying is that I am disappointed at the legal system and the disproportional power the police can project. But aside from calling my congressman, I don't know if I'd want to try to be a "constitutional martyr" and get a cop angry at me...

[asmithmd1]

He can claim that his computer check shows that you canceled your car insurance. You are not allowed to drive your car, you are not allowed to park it here so they tow to the impound lot. This happened to me, when someone else checked the next day it seems he mis-read his in car computer -- there is nothing wrong with my insurance and I am free to get my car after paying for towing and storage fee.

[jrockway]

The cops can do a lot worse than a $100 fine. That is the sort of thing that "don't talk to the cops" applies to, not minor traffic offenses.