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1. My friends got pulled over, and the officer made us get out of the car and sit on the curb. How come?

Any officer's primary concern is officer safety and control of the scene. One of the easiest ways to keep people under observation and control is to have them sit down, and the curb is usually the best (safest) option.

2. Do officers have to have a specific reason to pull someone over?

Yes. An officer can pull someone over for any violation of the vehicle code, or if there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. Erratic driving, possible drunk driving, cruising slowly with no apparent reason may also prompt a traffic stop. There are lots of possible reasons, and if you get pulled over, it's perfectly fair to ask why.

3. Can a police officer make you get out of the car during a traffic stop?

Yes. It is a matter of officer safety, and people can be made to exit a vehicle and remain in a safe place for a reasonable amount of time. If you refuse, you may be obstructing an officer, which is a crime.

4. Can a police officer search under the hood of my car?

Yes, if there is probable cause. California Vehicle Code (CVC) 2806 gives law enforcement the authorization to inspect vehicles if it is believed that vehicle modifications have been made.