Why should you buy a radar detector?

What is a radar detector

A radar detector is an electronic device that gives drivers alerts to radar gun used by police or law enforcement. Most radar detectors forewarn motorists of upcoming threats so that they can adjust their driving before being stopped and ticketed.

Why buy a radar detector

The most common reason for a traffic stop is speeding according to law enforcement. Police have several methods to record your speed, but radar gun is the most popular means. It has the Doppler effect that compares the outgoing wavelength to the returning ones after the radar bounces off the vehicle and gives speed records. However, as only a small portion of emitted radar returns to the radar gun, radar detectors can pick up the frequencies and notify you of the police’s presence.

Since speeding dramatically contribute to most traffic collisions and all traffic fatalities, it is so important that you maintain a keen awareness of your surroundings. The best radar detectors will do their job and even go beyond that so that you drive more safely and concertedly.

Is it legal?

It is easy to install a radar detector to the top of your dashboard or windshield with suction cups, meaning that they can be removed and installed to other vehicles. The best radar detectors should have a good combination of impressive range and accuracy with alert and control features that support and protect you while driving.

Under the Communications Act of 1934, private vehicles are legal to use laser radar detectors. Nevertheless, it is still illegal in Virginia, Washington D.C. and every U.S. military base. Commercial drivers are prohibited from using these devices.

What to look for when buying a radar detector?

A majority of users consider these electronic devices as their best companion when driving and rely on them to avoid speeding ticket, which can cost around $150 on average in the U.S. Therefore, when paying for one, I highly recommend you to consider the following factors: detection performance, alert features, control features and manufacturer’s help & support. And of course, reading radar detector reviews that are available everywhere on the Internet before you make up your mind.

Particularly, look for radar detectors that operate on a wide range of bands and don’t give false alerts. Moreover, they should be able to send multi-alerts when they detect more than one threats ahead of you at the same time.

It’s best if you buy a radar detector that don’t just notify you of lasers and radar bands but also other threats like speed cameras, red-light camera and speed traps. Some radar detector can go beyond and give alerts to accidents, road hazards and severe weather.

Also, keep it in mind that a good radar detector will give you full control of it with built-in GPS and Bluetooth technology, which allows it to integrate seamlessly with your smart phone and update frequently of the threats database. In the meantime, you can benefit from the real time threat reports sent to the system by other users.

And last but not least, a good radar detector should be produced by a prestigious manufacturer, who is always available for help via live chat, phone calls or emails and who provides buyers with enough information through FAQs pages, user forums, user manuals, blog and tutorials.