Understanding Legal Boundaries: Are Radar Detectors Legal in Georgia?
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The legality of are radar detectors legal in georgia is fairly simple. According to state law, it is illegal to possess or to use any device designed solely for the purpose of detecting speed-monitoring devices (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-395). The only exception to this rule is for radar detectors in automobiles and motorcycles.
No device can be used in a commercial vehicle for the sole purpose of detecting or interfering with speed-monitoring devices. Additionally, the use of devices designed for the physical removal of vehicle speedometers is illegal for any purpose. Any police officer can search vehicles if he or she suspects that the driver is using banned devices. Penalties for being caught using banned devices range from $100 to $1,000, depending on the judge’s discretion. In addition to fines and other monetary penalties, the offender could also be required to serve probation or spend up to a year in jail.
Some lawmakers around the country have sought to strengthen penalties for using banned devices such as radar detectors. State law in Georgia was amended this past year to tighten laws on the use of equipment used to interfere with law enforcement speed-checking devices. The bill, HB 32, as passed by the Georgia General Assembly, changes the penalties for the use of radar jammers and other equipment. The law also allows police officers to seize devices that are illegal in Georgia.
As you can see, using radar detectors and related equipment is illegal in Georgia, and the laws are becoming even stricter.
Whether you are driving to school, work or home for the holidays, it is prudent to be aware of the laws in the jurisdictions through which you will be traveling. This is especially true if you frequently travel back and forth between states. For instance, you may have heard that radar detectors are not prohibited in other states. Knowing the laws in the states where you travel is important, regardless of your age and current legal standing. Hopefully, the knowledge you gain in the classroom or through informal study will navigate you away from potential legal troubles.
For more information on traffic laws, you can visit Wikipedia’s page on traffic law.