What is the difference between stationary and mobile speed measurement devices?

What is the difference between stationary and mobile speed measurement devices?

• A. Stationary SMDs can monitor at multiple locations
• B. Mobile SMDs are less accurate than stationary ones
• C. Stationary SMDs are fixed, while mobile SMDs can be moved
• D. There is no difference between them

Answer: (C)

The distinction between stationary and mobile speed measurement devices lies primarily in their physical setup and operational flexibility. Stationary speed measurement devices are installed in a fixed location where they continuously monitor vehicle speeds in a designated area. This ensures that they collect data consistently from the same spot, which can be beneficial for long-term traffic studies or enforcement in high-traffic areas.

On the other hand, mobile speed measurement devices can be moved from one location to another, allowing law enforcement to monitor speed in various areas as needed. Their mobility enables a more dynamic approach to speed enforcement, as they can be deployed in different locations to address specific traffic concerns or to deter speeding in areas that may not typically be monitored.

This basic difference between fixed and movable setups is critical for understanding how each type of device operates and their application in traffic enforcement strategies.