No, radar detectors are not illegal for personal use in New York State. However, there are some exceptions:
- Commercial vehicles: Radar detectors are prohibited in any commercial vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 10,000 pounds. This includes trucks, buses, and any other vehicle used for commercial purposes.
- Mounts and displays: While radar detectors themselves are legal, it is illegal to mount them in a way that obstructs the driver’s view of the road. Additionally, it is also illegal to have a radar detector display that is visible from outside the vehicle.
Here’s a quick summary:
- Personal vehicles: Legal
- Commercial vehicles (GVWR > 10,000 lbs): Illegal
- Mounts and displays: Must not obstruct driver’s view or be visible from outside the vehicle
It’s important to note that even though radar detectors are legal, they are not foolproof. Police officers can still use other methods to detect speeding, such as lidar or pacing. Additionally, some states have laws that make it illegal to use radar detectors in conjunction with other devices, such as laser jammers.
