The National Safety Commission praised a proposal in the Legislature Wednesday to protect the public from drivers who think they can speed with impunity by using radar detection devices.
The legislation, sponsored by Sen. Steve Oelrich of Gainesville, would make using a radar detector a secondary traffic infraction, which means 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 in every state and more than 15 countries.
“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,” Underwood said. “Speed limits 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.”
In 2005, more than 380 Florida drivers were killed in accidents where excessive speed was the major contributing factor in the crash, according to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. To reduce the danger caused by speeding, nine other states have prohibited the use of radar detectors, including Illinois and Virginia.
“I applaud Sen. Oelrich for this common-sense legislation that will prevent crashes and save lives,” 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.”
