What is the minimum distance required to use RADAR near warning signs?

The minimum distance required to use RADAR near warning signs is established to ensure accurate speed detection while maintaining safety for both the operators and drivers. When utilizing RADAR equipment, it's critical to measure speeds from a sufficient distance to avoid interference from the warning signs themselves, which can affect the radar's accuracy.

500 feet is the standard minimum distance specified in many guidelines because it helps to ensure that vehicles are traveling at a constant speed when they pass the detection zone. Being too close can lead to erratic readings due to the driver's reaction to the warning signs, such as braking or accelerating. This distance allows the RADAR device to obtain a clearer and more representative speed of the vehicle without the immediate impact of the warning sign on the driver's behavior.

This distance is a commonly accepted minimum across various jurisdictions to ensure compliance and reliability of data collected by speed detection operators.