NCJ Number
86948
Date Published
1980
Length
171 pages
Annotation
This report concerns the identification of technologies that may be applicable to speed enforcement and a preliminary assesment of their possible utility in the U.S.
Abstract
The study emphasizes technologies that are in common use in Europe and elsewhere, but are relatively unknown in the U.S. The findings reflect information from the literature and elsewhere; personal visits to a number of foreign law enforcement agencies and manufacturers; and a quantitative rating system. The most common non-U.S. technology utilizes Doppler radar aimed diagonally across the road, rather than down the road as is the case with American systems, giving it a number of technical advantages. This, and several other technologies identified, can be used in combination with a camera to obtain photographic evidence, or to operate automatically without an officer in attendance. It is concluded that these technologies are technically much superior to the systems presently used in the U.S. and, although they are more expensive, offer potential cost-effectiveness advantages. However, there are some legal and public opinion concerns that must be dealt with, and field trials in the U.S. are strongly recommended. (NTIS abstract)