The police in Sarasota are serious about catching speeders. Whether you are driving five miles over the speed limit or much more than that, Sarasota police have many ways to catch you in the act. In fact, police have at least four different ways they can catch you speeding. Here’s a look at the various ways Sarasota police measure speed:
- Pace: Like the name implies, a police car will “pace” off of a driver for a given period of time in order to determine how fast he or she is going. This basic type of measurement is an easy way for undercover police officers to drive alongside a driver without him or her ever realizing it!
- Radar: A radar can be used by a police officer from the side of the road (in a stationary position) or while the officer is driving (in a moving position). Because of the versatility and relative accuracy of a radar, Sarasota officers always seem to have their radar handy.
- Laser: Perhaps the most accurate speed measuring device currently employed by Sarasota police, the laser is used in the stationary mode usually from the side of the road.
- Aircraft/Helicopter Clock: Operated by Florida Highway Patrol pilots, the pilot will use a certified stopwatch to clock time how fast you get from one point to another. Based on the split, the pilot will be able to determine if you are speeding or not. If you are, the pilot will get in touch with a ground officer to track you down and issue the citation.
Because of the technical nature of many of the speed measurement methods mentioned above, there are various safeguards put in place to make sure that the instruments are accurate and the Sarasota police officer actually knows how to use it! For instance, in both radar and laser cases, the issuing officer is required to show the following things: that the laser was calibrated at the beginning and end of their shift, that the laser was calibrated and inspected for accuracy within the last six months, that your ticket includes the serial number of the device used and that the officer made a visual estimate that you were traveling above the posted speed limit at the time of the speed capture. If any of these items are missing then our first action as your attorneys is to make a motion to dismiss the ticket against you.
Before you pay your Sarasota traffic ticket, get in touch with the law firm of Finebloom & Haenel P.A. We not only know all the defenses applicable to each of the specific types of speed measurement device but actually own the same units used by the Florida Highway Patrol. We are familiar with the rules and regulations of your case and will work hard to get you the best results possible and hopefully keep points off your driving record. Give us a call today for a free consultation.
