Some of you may remember the ‘80s movie adaptation of the epic (and excellent) sci-fi novel Dune by Frank Herbert. The characters in this far-distant future wear defensive shield belts that, when activated, partially protect them from attack.

But they are not invulnerable to attack.

Radar detectors amount to the same thing. They offer partial shielding. They do not guarantee immunity from tickets. But they can greatly reduce you odds of getting one – if you understand what they can (and can’t) do and adjust your driving accordingly. Dune Herbert, Frank Best Price: $1.98 Buy New $7.18 (as of 03:20 UTC - Details)

Radar detectors can’t detect radar that’s not on – but police radar might still be there.

Some cops keep their radar running continuously and that’s the radar detectors are able to detect. The radar signal emanates in the direction the radar gun is pointed – like waves approaching the beach. The detector picks up the signal and that tiggers the warning beeps and lights.

Better detectors have greater sensitivity – they can pick up the radar signal sooner than the less-sensitive models, which gives you more time to react and cut your speed and so avoid the piece of payin’ paper.

But some cops run with their radar off. They turn their unit on only when you’re already in the Kill Zone. Your detector will let you know you’ve been hit with radar, but probably not in time to do much except think about how you might try to talk your way out of the piece of payin’ paper you’re about to get. Amazon.com Gift Card i... Buy New $15.00 (as of 03:50 UTC - Details)

This is Instant On radar – and it’s without doubt the second-most effective form of speed-trapping. There are only two defenses.The first is to not exceed the speed limit, which would be a feasible policy if speed limits weren’t universally ignored (because set universally below the normal flow of traffic, in order to make “speeders” out of just about everyone, so as to make for easy revenue collection). If you drive the speed limit, you’re likely to be ticketed for impeding traffic – and certain to be given many fingers.

Option number two is the better policy. It is to let someone else lead. Just like in Vietnam. Or Afghanistan. Let the other guy walk point. Since everyone “speeds,” if there is a cop up ahead running Instant On, he will paint the leader – and you’ll get warning in time to slow down.

Never “speed” alone – especially at night.

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