Buy Radar Detectors - The Blog

They Shorten the Yellow Lights!

2010-03-12T20:01:16Z

The cities that install red light cameras would not shorten the yellow lights would they? Even in towns that are not purposely trying to rip-off their citizens, the people installing the camera systems are. According to this article, Redflex in the city of League City, Texas has been busted doing just that!

"The camera company installed cameras here like they have done elsewhere where they knew they could take advantage of the poor engineering and short yellow change intervals," Schirmbeck told TheNewspaper. "Instead of fixing the problem and seeing what effect that has they choose to profit from a dangerous situation."

The practice of shortening yellow light intervals is very common because it is also very profitable. From the story:

"A study by the Texas Transportation Institute found that violations jumped 110 percent when yellow light timing was reduced by one second under the bare minimum amount (view study). Conversely, the addition of one second beyond the bare minimum yielded a 40 percent collision reduction."

So there you go. The cities and companies that put in red light cameras do not care about your safety. In fact they are making driving more dangerous on purpose so they can make money off of you. This is not a gray area, if you live where politicians have installed cameras they are purposefully endangering your safety to make money.

Protect yourself with a red light camera detector. We have several to choose from and they might just save you from getting a ticket.

The Cobra XRS 9970G Radar Detector is Here!

2010-03-05T20:10:10Z

The Cobra XRS 9970G is Cobra's latest entry into the windshield radar detector market. This is a top of the line offering from Cobra, with GPS functionality and their new touch screen display. Many of you are fans of the feature rich Cobra radar detectors, and the 9970G is a great addition to their extensive line.

Regular readers of this blog know that red light cameras continue to rip-off as many of you as possible. Having a good warning system is the best protection you can have in areas where crooked politicians have installed red light cameras. The 9970G offers a full GPS warning system and radar detector combined into one easy to use device.

We like the detachable GPS module a lot, and is one of our favorite features on the 9960G. So we were very pleased to see that Cobra is continuing to use the easy to remove module. You can just unplug the module and connect it to your PC for updates, instead of having to remove the entire detectors like other integrated radar / red light camera detector models.

The touch screen should make the 9970G even easier to use. Cobra has long had one of the best interfaces around. The large, full color touch screen is something that should enable you to quickly change the detector's settings.

We have the Cobra 9970G radar detector here in stock and ready to ship for $239.95 with free shipping!

Another Buy Radar Detectors Contest!

2010-03-05T14:56:01Z

It is time for another of our popular contest here at Buy Radar Detectors. We often have a lot of demonstration items or trial products, and instead of taking them home with us, I am going to give a few away. They are not brand new, but pre-owned is a bit of a stretch.

This contest is easy, be one of the first three to send us an email to: contest @ buyradardetectors.com (no spaces) and let us know where to mail the items to. We have a TollFree Protector for the first to respond, and a Black License Plate Frame for the second and third entry.

The 2010 Whistler Radar Detector Roundup!

2010-02-26T15:40:56Z

We have already talked a bit about the new RLC 250 from Whistler, but they also have several new radar detectors coming out this year. Whistler is the leader in budget, quality radar detectors and everyone here at Buy Radar Detectors is a big fan. Some of us use them in our personal vehicles, and we have literally a warehouse of radar detectors to pick from!

For 2010, there are a few new models and some that are an "upgraded" design over a previous model.

OK, here is a quick list of the new 2010 models:

Whistler XTR-145 THE XTR-145 IS NOW IN STOCK! $42.95

Whistler XTR-265

Whistler XTR-335 THE XTR-335 IS NOW IN STOCK! $69.99

Whistler XTR-420

Whistler XTR-440

Whistler XTR-555

Whistler PRO-68SE

And also the new RLC-250 (currently getting my vote for Best Car Gadget of 2010).

One thing that we are interested in, we consider the Whistler PRO 68 to be one of the best (if not the best) radar detector available for under $100. The new Whistler PRO-68SE might be a very interesting model.

I will update this list as we get the models here at our radar detector test lab. Also, we of course will continue to stock all of the existing models including the popular Whistler XTR-690 SE, Whistler PRO 78SE, and Whistler XTR-540 Radar Detector.

The Whistler RLC 250

2010-02-25T20:10:42Z

Whistler's new RLC 250 is their new entry into the line of red light and speed camera warning systems. Many RLC systems use a small monochrome display, the RLC-250 instead has a 1.6", easy to read, multi-color display. Like other RLC systems, the RLC-250 compares your current GPS location with an on-board database of red light and speed camera locations and alerts you when you are near one.

It is also a lot smaller than you might think. In the picture is a Whistler XTR 695 SE (I told you we had them in stock!), a Whistler RLC 100, and in the front is the Whistler RLC 250. It is much more compact than most radar detectors. Also, one thing many people overlook is that since you only need to have a clear GPS signal, it can be mounted just about anywhere on the dash. Yes, that means even on top of the driver's side console. Just make sure it has an unobstructed path for a clear GPS signal.

One thing we do not like, it seems to be lacking the ability to plug a radar detector into it like you are able to do with the RLC 100. We really would have liked to have had that ability. I am sure many of you are like we are and have way too many gadgets already plugged in as it is. Well at least we have some cigarette lighter adapter / splitters available.

If you have been looking for a compact RLC with a nice display, then give the RLC 250 a look. We have them here for $114.95. They are much cheaper than a ticket for not coming to a complete stop before turning right on a red light. Crooked politicians.

The Whistler XTR695 SE Radar Detector is Here!

2010-02-22T20:08:00Z

We now have them in stock. Yes, Whistler was being all stingy and not letting online retailers sell them. However, they changed their mind and now we have them here in stock and ready to ship out! The Whistler XTR-695 SE is one of the best radar detectors you can buy for the price. The XTR-695's performance is legendary, and Whistler has managed to further improve the design without losing the original's unique qualities.

Whistler has long been the leader in affordable, quality radar detectors and the XTR-695 SE is no exception. If you have been looking for a budget friendly radar detector with great performance then give the XTR 695 SE a look. We have them ready to go for $174.95! If you have any questions at all, give us a call or send an email.

And no, this is not a prank, we really do have them here at our radar detector headquarters. I had one on my desk even! Check back here on our radar detector blog later this week for another very interesting item we have from Whistler as well. One that I think many of you will like a lot.

Escort SC55 Safety Camera Locator

2010-02-17T20:49:54Z

Ok, that is not the best name for the device, but it is what Escort is calling it for now. SC55 Red Light Camera Detector / System is a bit more in-line with standard industry nomenclature. Escort SC55 will do though.

The Escort SC55 is a new addition to devices that are able to warn you about red light and speed cameras. You know, those little cameras at stop lights that are installed by crooked politicians. Even though the cameras are being removed by any city with a sense of moral responsibility, they are still around and in use in many places.

There are already several devices available that use GPS coordinates combined with a list of camera locations to warn you when you are near one. That way you can be aware that any yellow light will last about .00001 seconds and you might also be involved in a crash. The first step to avoiding a trap is knowing it is there.

The Escort SC55 is here to help. Like other camera warning systems, it uses GPS location and a database. The SC55 is promising pinpoint GPS placement (not much good being warned after you go through an intersection) and an updatable, and accurate database. In fact the Escort's Defender™
Database is rather highly regarded (and is the one currently used by Escort 9500ix and BELTRONICS Pro GX65 integrated RLC / radar detectors).

We are looking forward to seeing how well the SC55 will do compared to other RLC devices currently available from Cheetah and Whistler.

The SC55 will have an optional kit to connect to certain Escort and Beltronic radar detectors. If the SC55 will work with the Redline radar detector, it could make for a very versatile protective system. The SC55 should start at around $159.95 for the base model and $179.95 with the connector kit. The SC55 will be a great way to have GPS red light warning functionality for a good price. When you realize that the cost of a red light ticket is often that much (or more), the extra preventative warning is worth it.

As soon as we have them here in our warehouse we will let all of you know. Unlike some websites, we stock every radar detector, red light camera system, laser jammer, and accessory we sell. They should be here in a few weeks.

SC 55 Safety Camera Locator sounds like a diagnostic tool for use with security cameras though.

Cruiser Accessories License Plate Frames and Covers

2010-02-12T18:36:26Z

Some of the most popular accessories we carry are license plate frames and covers, so we are pleased to let all of you know that we have expanded our selection. The plate frames are perfect to use with the Super Protector and other red light / speed camera defense products and the plate covers work great with Laser Veil.

One of the best features of the Cruiser frames is that they do not obscure or cover license plate numbers or other plate information. This means they are to legal in most states. If you have any questions regarding the allowable usage of plate frames and covers where you live, we recommend that you contact your local DMV office.

The plate covers are very durable, and the TUF SHIELD plates are almost indestructible. If you are in an area where license plate theft is common, just add a set of locking fasteners for even more security. We have a great selection of frames, covers, and hardware available and ready to ship. Please contact us with any questions!

Radar Detectors are Illegal in Virginia, and They Will Stay That Way for Now

2010-02-12T13:54:30Z

The bill to repeal the ban on radar detectors failed to make it through the state's legislature. So for now the use of radar detectors in Virginia will continue to be illegal.

Escort has Changed the Solo S2 Radar Detector - Well Sorta

2010-02-11T18:43:18Z

The Escort Solo S2 Cordless Radar Detector is a favorite around here. While cordless radar detectors do not have the same performance of a "wired" model, the Solo 2 is still a very good radar detector. Also, it is perfect for motorcycles, and for those that need a detector that can easily be set-up and used with different vehicles.

Escort has made some minor changes to the packaging of the Solo 2 model. On the left side of the picture is the old package, and on the right is the new one. The radar detector is staying the same, but it will now come with a soft case and an extra set of suction cups. The price is remaining the same at $339.95. Here at Buy Radar Detectors our opinion on soft cases is split. Many feel that it makes it easier to store, and is more rugged than the hard case. Others feel that the hard case provides better protection and is, well, nicer. We only have a few hard case models left, so if you want one, please call us at 1-800-584-1445 and specify that you want one.

Will Radar Detectors be Legal in Virginia This Week?

2010-02-10T14:35:48Z

The bill repealing the ban on the use of radar detectors in Virginia is to be voted on again today. If the bill passes, it will then move to the state's Senate. By the end of the week it might be legal to own and use a radar detector in all 50 states.

Radar Detectors in Virginia?

2010-02-04T19:05:51Z

In a follow-up to our last blog post, it looks like efforts to repeal the ban on radar detectors in Virginia are making some headway. According to this article the bill has now passed to Virginia's general assembly. Way to go! So should legalizing radar detectors in Washington DC be next?

Are Radar Detectors Going to be Legal in Virginia?

2010-01-28T18:50:57Z

According to this article radar detectors may soon be legal in Virginia. Currently Virginia is the only state where having a radar detector is illegal, though they are also illegal in DC and on military bases. Virginia's ban has long been a frustration to drivers. You have to stop and take down your detector when entering the state, in fact there are even signs at the stateline warning you of this. For many people, a concealed radar detector was their only option. This is great news for everyone that drives in Virginia! We also encourage you to write to Delegate Joe May expressing your support for his plan to legalize radar detectors.

Red Light Cameras are About Money not Safety

2010-01-21T19:34:08Z

Red light cameras continue to pop-up in new cities and towns, but they also are coming back down in others. Not every city government is willing to fine its own citizens unfairly and treat them as a revenue resource. In Dalton Georgia the cameras are being removed even though they were making a lot of money from the cameras. According to this article:

At $75 a pop, 6,906 citations were issued that year, mostly for illegal right-on-red turns; 624 citations were issued in February alone.

In 2008 though the Georgia state legislature started to look at the claims that red light cameras were just to make money. They ordered yellow lights to be lengthened and the number of tickets being issued to people "running" red lights decreased substantially. We have already mentioned in this blog how many cities reduce the yellow lights to purposefully trap people so they can ticket them even if it causes more wrecks to take place. In most cities, failing to come to a dead, complete stop before turning right on red will get you a $200 ticket. It has nothing to do with catching people that run a red light on purpose.

The mayor of Dalton, David Pennington was paying attention to all of this.

"That sort of exposed the myth of why they're there," says Mayor David Pennington, an opponent of red-light cameras. "It goes against what I was told to begin with, which is that they are for safety."

So he had the red light cameras removed. He placed the financial welfare of the people in the community over making money off of them. The people of Dalton should be proud to have him as their mayor.

If you live in a city or town with red light cameras, they are just there to make money off of you. They do not promote safety, for that they just need to increase the length of yellow lights. Find out who in your local government is responsible for having them installed, and question why they want to treat their very own citizens as cash generators. Drive them from office, they just want to use you. They are so inept, they cannot be fiscally responsible enough to run a city without stealing money from their own citizens.

We carry red light camera detectors and other automotive defensive products so you can protect yourself from expensive tickets. Be an informed, and most importantly a safe driver.

Should the Price of a Speeding Ticket be Based on Your Income?

2010-01-13T19:33:43Z

The main reason most people have a radar detector, or a redlight camera warning system is because the fines associated with a speeding ticket, or for turning right on a redlight can be very expensive. I have met very few people that do not speed occasionally unintentionally, and those redlight cameras are designed to eventually give everyone a ticket. So a radar detector, laser jammer, or camera detector is an investment against the inevitable reality of a ticket and associated insurance premiums.

As more and more cites struggle to make money, in turn there is increased pressure on law enforcement to write more tickets, or for towns to sell their soul to a camera operator. The interesting part of all this is that there are some people that find the financial penalties a bit, well insignificant. So some countries (mostly in Europe) are now scaling the price of the fine based on the income of the driver. In this story, one such person received a $290,000 speeding ticket. He is considered a repeat offender, and is also very wealthy. To him a $200 ticket is a joke.

I wonder how long it will be before you start to hear of this in the US? While I like aspects of this, and scaling a fine to meet a person's income level is perhaps a fair approach, there is room for precedent that could be abused. Also, what would happen if all traffic fines and not just speeding tickets were treated this way? Again it would start fair, but I doubt it will make some of the outrageous fines less for most of us. We will in the end just have to pay more to local city governments because they cannot be financially sound. Many view tickets as easy revenue.

The use of paying fines to modify a person's actions, or to punish poor judgment is a good system. The amount should be enough to actively discourage people, and the risk of a ticket is a good social control mechanism. However, using tickets to make money has allowed the practice to escalate the price of an average speeding ticket to be beyond what many of us are able to pay.

In some states, the ticket for not coming to a complete stop before turning right at a redlight can result in a $450-500 ticket. I recently read on twitter about one person who said they were glad they got around $500 in gifts from their family for Christmas since they need the money to pay for a redlight ticket. With the very deceitful and corrupt practices used by some cities to make money from cameras, I wonder how long it will take for them to base the ticket off of your income? I am rather sure, the price of the tickets will not be less, they are making too much money for that. $20,000 redlight tickets perhaps? And to be clear on this, only a maniac runs a redlight on purpose. Fining them is the least of their problems.

Protecting people from expensive tickets for a lapse in judgment, inanition, or being scammed by a redlight camera vendor is why we are here. We have a large selection of radar detectors, laser jammers, redlight / speed camera warning systems and other protective items. If you have any questions about what is the best radar detector for where you live, or any other questions, give us a call or send an email.