Scanners in vehicles
We address the issue of having a scanner in your vehicle and offer various solutions in-order to avoid conflicts when stopped. Visit:
www.trafficalertusa.com 'FAQ's" Page.
It's not fail safe, but if you want to have a scanner in your vehicle, in those states where it is illegal, know the law and consider your options. And by all means...pull the cig lighter connection if stopped. You never want a trooper standing at your driver's side window listening to his dispatcher from YOUR scanner, unless you are part of a public service organization, etc. It's like bringing your girlfriend home to meet your wife!
At the same time though, don't be intimidated by a law enforcement officer that wants to confiscate your radio if YOU know you are legal. Request his/her supervisor to respond. If all else fails, go to court and get your radio back.
There are law enforcement types out there that don't actually know what the law states about scanners, to include the laws about fire personnel and red/clear emergency lights and where they can and can't be located on your vehicle. They WILL stop you to confirm and/or annoy you, but most don't really bother those with antennas all over their vehicle, unless you are sitting behind a business after hours.
For instance...bail agents staking-out a fugitive's home often listen to their scanner to see if a neighbor has tagged them, but the law also states that bail agents are suppose to notify the locals for that very same reason. Generally, if you don't have a very good reason to have a scanner in your vehicle, then you better be in those states where it is legal, but at the same time, you will have to convince the trooper you just love scanning their frequencies, for the heck of it and hope you are not parked somewhere that is suspicious.
Again...we try to address the issues, and you will find the website very interesting....as I have been told.
Thanks,
Dave