first a welcome to the forum, sorry it has to be under these circumstances...
that stated, a cursory review of
WV statutes...
CHAPTER 61. CRIMES AND THEIR PUNISHMENT.
ARTICLE 7. DANGEROUS WEAPONS.
http://www.legis.state.wv.us/wvcode/code.cfm?chap=61&art=7
doesn't reveal any thing out of the norm or guidance on carrying in a vehicle w/ or w/o a permit.
from WV state police site:
Q. Is it lawful to carry weapons (e.g. rifles, shotguns, and pistols) in my vehicle when I travel in West Virginia?
A. Individuals who possess a valid concealed carry permit may carry a concealed handgun in a motor vehicle for purpose of self defense only.
West Virginia permits anyone who can lawfully possess a handgun to carry an unconcealed handgun. If you choose to carry an unconcealed handgun in your vehicle and are stopped by a law-enforcement officer, you must understand that that the weapon will immediately attract the attention of the police officer. The presence of the weapon may lead to action by the officer to ensure his or her safety such as the drawing of his or her weapon, ordering you from the vehicle, and/or performing a pat-down search. Weapons intended for hunting must be unloaded and in a case when transported in a vehicle. It is strongly recommended that, if you do not have a valid concealed carry permit, while traveling in a vehicle, that all firearms be unloaded and cased in a location in the vehicle that is not readily accessible to any of the occupants. Any ammunition should be stored in a separate location from the firearm.
http://www.wvsp.gov/about/Pages/LegalDivisionFAQs.aspx
therefore, from the nice state patrol's perspective you can call but you scared the bejesus out of them so they searched you under the guise of officer safety.
there is no official WV state statute cite with the above and it is consider on the website as 'FAQ' legal opinions.
enjoy.
ipse