What do Whren v. United States establish regarding traffic stops?

Whren v. United States is a landmark Supreme Court case that clarified the nature of traffic stops in relation to the Fourth Amendment. The ruling established that law enforcement officers do not need reasonable suspicion for every traffic stop, as long as they can cite a legitimate traffic violation as the reason for the stop. In essence, if an officer observes a traffic infraction, they are permitted to make a stop regardless of any subjective motives they may have regarding the occupants of the vehicle.

This decision underscored the principle that the existence of a traffic violation is sufficient justification for the stop, even if the officer's motivations are influenced by the race or other characteristics of the driver or passengers. This ruling has significant implications for how traffic laws are enforced and how the legal system interprets the requirements for stopping vehicles.

Understanding this principle is essential for comprehending the legal framework surrounding police stops, especially in discussions related to civil rights and law enforcement practices.