Problem
Are there any situations in which a warrant is required to search a motor vehicle? In reality, isn't the warrant requirement the exception rather than the rule in automobile cases? Fully explain your answer.
Assume that a person is arrested for DUI late at night while driving home alone. He tells the police that he does not want his car impounded and that a friend will pick up the car some time the next day. He says he will sign a paper absolving the police from any liability for any loss or damage to the car or its contents.
Can the police still impound the car? If so, how legally? What does this allow them to do in way of searching the vehicle?