What does it mean when a radar unit shows a speed reading followed by an “error” alert?

When a radar unit displays a speed reading accompanied by an "error" alert, it indicates that the device has detected a problem. This alert serves to notify the operator that something may be amiss with the equipment, which could affect the accuracy and reliability of the speed measurement. It is crucial for operators to pay attention to such alerts and conduct appropriate checks or troubleshooting to ensure that the radar unit is functioning correctly before relying on its speed readings for enforcement or documentation purposes.

This error alert is an important safety and operational feature, designed to prevent misinterpretation of data that could lead to wrongful traffic enforcement actions. Recognizing the significance of this alert can help maintain the integrity of speed detection processes.