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- How does police Radar work?
A radar provides a speed reading on any moving vehicle. The radar sends out a beam frequency
that changes when it encounters a solid object or some type of interference (usually your car)
The radar then measures the difference between outgoing and incoming frequency, and converts
that measurement into a miles per hour speed of your car. The radar version frequently used today is the PLL (Phase?Lock Loop) Radar, which measures the microwave shift of frequency and interprets it as a digital readout of your vehicle's speed. Mostly, police use modular radar units, which are made up of an antenna head and the counting unit. This unit also comes in a hand?held version (like a gun).
- How does laser detection work?
More and more police are using laser or LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) to detect the
speed of vehicles. Unlike a Radar, laser sends out a thin invisible beam of infrared light, which
reflects off your car and returns to the laser gun. The frequency is then calculated into miles per
hour.
- What should I do if a cop pulls me over?
First of all remain calm, roll down your window and wait for the cop to come to your window.
Keep both your hands on the steering wheel, and don't make any sudden moves. This is the most
dangerous part of a cop's traffic routine, because he doesn't know who he has pulled over. For
all he knows, you could be a deranged psycho cradling an Uzi just waiting for your chance to go
out in blazing glory. When the cop comes to your window, let him do all the talking, and make
sure you answer in a polite, friendly, calm manner. But don't admit to anything.
- What if I have something in my car that I don't want to get caught with?
First of all, you should not have something like that in your car, but if you do, pull over, grab your
license and registration, and get out of your car. But don't start walking over to the patrol car.
Just stand clear of yours, and wait for the cop to approach you.
- Does a cop have the right to search my car?
No, he doesn't. You have the right to refuse. If he asks to look around inside your car, tell him he
cannot. A cop can't search your car without probable cause, a warrant, or your permission. In
order to have probable cause the cop has to be convinced that you are hiding something illegal.
And if he asks your permission to search your car, you know for sure he doesn't have probable
cause. If he says he can get a warrant, ask him to please go ahead and get one. A lot of people
don't know what is legal and what is illegal in their car, so you might get busted for something
you had no idea was against the law. And secondly, a search gives the cop a chance to plant
incriminating evidence in your car. You never know.
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