The main reason why people install radar detectors in their vehicles is to get a visual and audible warning when they approach a speed trap on the road. This is a simple way most drivers avoid getting fined if their foot is usually a bit heavy on the gas pedal.
Even the most vigilant drivers can sometimes drive past a lower speed limit sign and end up getting into unnecessary trouble with law enforcement. Radar detectors help to remind the driver to slow down wherever required.
Every state and province in the United States has its own laws governing the use of radar detectors, including New Jersey. These laws differ for non-commercial and commercial vehicles. Read along as we discuss the caveats to this law.
Relevant Restrictions
So, are radar detectors legal in New Jersey? Yes, New Jersey permits the use of these devices. However, there are a few relevant restrictions regarding their use.
Below you will find how the state’s law controls the use and mounting of radar detectors.
Windshield Mounting Recommended
Mounting the radar detector on the windshield is perfectly fine in most states as long as it does not negatively affect the driver’s view. New Jersey does not have any particular mention of windshield mounting with regard to radar detectors.
However, for safety’s sake, it is better to keep the device off the windshield and install it on the sun visor or dash.
Privately Owned vs Commercially Owned Vehicles
Passenger vehicles and privately owned vehicles can own and use radar detectors in most states. The restrictions come into play for commercially owned vehicles over a certain weight limit.
In most states, only commercial vehicles that exceed 10,000 lbs in weight are prohibited from mounting a radar detector. However, as per New Jersey laws, even commercial vehicles under 10,000 lbs are not permitted to use a radar detector.
Driving Close to a Military Base
Though private vehicle owners are allowed to own and use radar detectors, there are certain places within the state where their use is prohibited. Military territory, for instance.
If you want to drive into a military area, you will need to remove any visible radar detectors to avoid paying a fine.
Will I Be Pulled Over for Using a Radar Detector?
If you are using a radar detector as per the state’s laws, there is no reason for law enforcement to ticket you for it. However, if you are speeding, you will get pulled over.
If you are driving a commercial vehicle while using a radar detector and get pulled over, officers can and will ask you to pay a fine.
Alternatives to Radar Detectors
There are limited alternatives to radar detectors in the market. Most of these alternatives are available as apps on smartphones.
They help users by displaying the locations of speed traps in the area. However, their effectiveness remains questionable.
State of New Jersey Info
New Jersey shares borders with New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Atlantic Ocean.
It is among the original 13 states of the United States.
While it is the fourth smallest in terms of area, it ranks as the 11th most densely populated state in the country.
Population: 8,864,590
Capital: Trenton
Registered vehicles: 6,006,247
Total lane miles: 85,108
Number of highways: 10