Radar detectors are very controversial these days. However, they are growing in popularity and more people own radar detectors today than ever before. Let's take a look at some reasons to own a radar detector.
I wish I could say I never speed, but that's just not the case. Actually, there are very few people who can say they never speed. This is such a face-paced life we live; always on the go and late getting there. So let's be as safe as possible. While most people think radar detectors are only for detecting speed traps, they can actually serve as a safety tool. While my mind is on a dozen other things (I know, I should be thinking about my driving...) my speed goes unchecked. Then, alas, my radar detector beeps and brings my attention back to the serious matter of my driving speed. Hopefully, it has alerted me soon enough to avoid a speeding ticket.
We've all seen the sneaky cops who hide behind bushes, just over the hill, around the curve at the bottom of the hill, or behind those bridge abutments. Don't you just grit your teeth when you see that! So why not have your own line of defense? Bear in mind there are a few states that do not allow the use of radar detectors, so be sure to check with your state before purchasing a radar detector. You can be sure the cost of a radar detector is far less than the cost of speeding tickets. Then there's the factor of increased insurance premiums - ouch! And that's a long-term expense!
Do you do a lot of driving for your job or career? Once again, you need to be in a dozen different places an hour ago, so you're driving like mad to get there. How many tickets can you get before you lose your job? How many tickets can you get before your insurance goes through the roof, once again putting your job at jeopardy? It just makes good sense to use a radar detector whenever you're on the road. If you can't help yourself from speeding, then at least use a tool to help protect your driving record and job security.
So, you've decided to purchase a radar detector - now what? There are some important considerations when purchasing a radar detector. For instance, band detection (which detects the range of police radar devises), distance to detection, ability to jam the signal, pricing, even where they are manufactured. So it's important to do your homework. Here are some tips to help you along:
1. First of all, are they legal in your state - you could face large fines and even confiscation of your unit. The best way to find out is to contact your Secretary of State or local law enforcement office. If you live in Virginia or District of Columbia, don't bother - they're illegal in these areas. If you drive a commercial vehicle, don't bother - they're illegal for use in commercial vehicles, as well as on military bases and most Canadian provinces.
2. How much do you want to spend? Remember the old saying, "You get what you pay for." That being said, the most expensive radar detector is not necessarily the best one for you. So give some thought to the features you are looking for, which leads us to tip # 3.
3. There are a lot of radar detectors on the market with a lot of features, such as range, sensitivity, visual alerts, audio alerts, false alarm control, etc. Basically, there are three different types of radar detectors on the market: (A) corded, which are usually mounted on the windshield in the vicinity of your rear view mirror and offer the best range of detection; (B) cordless, which are more transportable and are easier to install, and (C) remote-mount radar detectors which are permanently mounted to your vehicle and are undetectable to thieves.
4. So what features do you need? Of course, this goes back to your budget - the more features, the more it's going to cost you. At a minimum:
Your radar detector should have a wide band and can pick up the entire X, K, and Ka band. And by the way, you will want different indicators for each one of these bands including a separate flash or beep for each band.
You want your radar detector to have at least 110 dB.
Do you like the appearance of the display - Is it clear and large enough to see it?
You will most likely want a mute feature and volume control, as well.
Now that you know what features to look for, what type of radar detector do you want that fits in the budget you have to work with. A lot of manufacturers will have an online comparison of their different makes, models and features. This will help you narrow down the manufacturer, and then consider purchasing your item from a reputable website specializing in radar detectors.
As I mentioned before, you usually get what you pay for, but if you keep with some of the more popular brands, such as Beltronics, Cobra, Escort, Rocky Mountain Radar, Valentine and Whistler, you should be just fine, as they usually offer a wide variety of product with a wide variety of features in all price ranges.
5. Another consideration - are you going to install it yourself or have it professionally installed. Some radar detectors install as easily as plugging it into your cigarette lighter; others require direct wiring, etc. Most manufacturers offer installation guidelines and schematics for their products on their websites. If you aren't handy enough to install it yourself, most good electronics stores can point you to an auto electronics installation facility.
6. Probably the most important tip I can offer - BUYER BEWARE. As with any purchase, do your homework. Check the warranty and the small print. Can you return it if it's not the correct model for you. What if it's defective - can you return it for your money back or just an exchange or store credit? If you buy from an online store, be sure they are an authorized dealer; give them a call to be sure they're a real store; and, again, read the small print there as well.
Hope you find these tips helpful. Be safe, and have a great trip!
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