Radar detectors first exploded on the market in the late 1960s. Even though some of the early designs still exist today, the newer versions are the ones that really work. The inventor, Dales Smith, wanted to utilize his extensive knowledge about electronics to help motorists avoid unfair speeding tickets. In short, a radar detector offers drivers an electronic method of telling if police officers are checking speed limits with a radar gun. Such a device aims to slow down before the officers can tell that you are speeding. Nowadays, radar detector technology has also improved to keep up with police technology. Here are the six advantages of owning one.
They Are Legal
Despite general misconceptions about radar detectors, they are legal in most states, except for Washington DC and Virginia. Radar jammers and other electronics that interfere with police tech are illegal. However, there are still limitations to the use of radar detectors. For instance, they are not legal for use in commercial vehicles. In personal vehicles, they are allowed and can’t be legally confiscated by the cops.
They Reduce Traffic Fines
The most apparent advantage of a radar detector is they assist you with avoiding speeding tickets. They may not work every time but being able to prevent some tickets is still better than not avoiding any. When police utilize radar, they’re casting a net to catch speeders. With a detector, you can basically see the net before driving into it.
They Work In All Weather Conditions
Another general radar detector misconception is that they do not work in adverse weather conditions. It is possible for the radio waves to penetrate different types of weather occurrences. As long as these radio waves are not getting through, your detector will still operate. Rain, shine, or storm, you’ll be able to get less speeding tickets. You can check out the review on the escort max 360 radar detector if you are looking into buying one for yourself.
They Can Warn You In Advance
Opposite to popular belief, a radio detector does not make people drive faster. In fact, some versions will notify you once you’ve exceeded a specific speed. This can actually assist with keeping an eye on your speed and slowing down when it’s necessary.
They Enhance Safety
When individuals notice a police car on the side of the road, their first inclination is to brake. However, this can be the cause of accidents, creating a rapid change that fellow drivers are not prepared for. Radar detectors can prepare you for officer presence before you even notice the cop car. This way, you won’t make any sudden moves that could potentially jeopardize yourself or other drivers on the road.
They can save you cash
Unfortunately, the low-end, inexpensive rad detectors won’t work that well. You will have to spend some money on a good one. However, when you consider the long-term investment, you can save hundreds or thousands of dollars when you think long term when avoiding speeding tickets. Speeding tickets also come with costly repercussions, such as points on your license. The more tickets you incur, the more expensive it can get.