North Carolina RADAR State Practice Exam

When the RADAR has computed the target speed correctly, what is the relationship with the patrol vehicle speed?

1. The target speed directly aligns with patrol vehicle speed

2. The target speed is independent of patrol vehicle speed

3. The target speed decreases with increased patrol speed

4. The target speed fluctuates based on patrol vehicle speed

The correct answer is: The target speed is independent of patrol vehicle speed

The correct answer highlights the fundamental principle that the target speed measured by the RADAR device is independent of the patrol vehicle's speed. When a RADAR system is utilized to measure the speed of a target vehicle, it does so by emitting radio waves and analyzing the return signals. The computation of the target vehicle's speed is based solely on the signals emanating from that vehicle, not on the speed of the patrol car. This means that even if the patrol vehicle is moving at a different speed—whether faster, slower, or stationary—it does not affect the calculation of how fast the target vehicle is traveling. This independence is crucial for the proper functioning of RADAR devices, as it ensures that law enforcement can accurately assess the speed of vehicles on the road without their own speed skewing the results. Understanding this concept is vital for law enforcement officers, as it reinforces the reliability and accuracy of RADAR speed measurements in traffic enforcement situations.