Fla. Bill Would Ban Radar Detectors

A bill in the Florida legislature to forbid motorists' use of radar detectors drew enthusiastic backing yesterday from the National Safety Commission.

The group offered praise for a bill sponsored by Sen. Steve Oelrich, R- Gainesville, would make using a radar detector a secondary traffic infraction.

According to the measure's language, a motorist could be ticketed if he or she were pulled over for another offense and found to be using a radar detector.

"This bill is a positive step to protect Florida families on roads and highways from speeding drivers," said Ken Underwood, president of the National Safety Commission, which provides auto safety courses to consumers and businesses throughout the nation.

"Radar detectors give drivers a false sense of security that they can speed as much as they want without facing the consequences of breaking the law," Mr. Underwood said.

Speed limits, he added "are important because they are proven to help prevent accidents and save lives, and using a radar detector encourages people to drive at unsafe speeds."

According to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, in 2005 more than 380 Florida drivers were killed in accidents where excessive speed was the major contributing factor in the crash.

Washington, D.C. and Virginia have prohibited the use of radar detectors, and Minnesota and California have indirectly banned some usage by outlawing windshield attachments. Their use is not permitted in commercial vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds, the commission said.

"I applaud Sen. Oelrich for this common-sense legislation that will prevent crashes and save lives," Mr. Underwood said. "After more than a decade of experience as Sheriff of Alachua County, he continues to show that public highway safety is a priority with this legislation."