Israel Deploys New Laser Speed Guns, Enhancing Traffic Enforcement

Israel's police have introduced a new laser speed measurement device, dubbed the "laser gun," which simultaneously records a vehicle's speed and captures its photograph. This new technology, reported by Calcalist, will operate alongside older laser devices, which are gradually being phased out. The updated system aims to reduce traffic accidents and improve driving culture by allowing officers to issue tickets remotely, sending them directly to the vehicle owner's home without requiring a traffic stop.

The new LTI 2020 TRUCAM is larger than its predecessor and uses a laser beam to calculate speed. Unlike older models that necessitated officers to stop drivers to issue citations, the new device photographs the offending vehicle, streamlining the enforcement process. Police sources indicate this allows officers to issue numerous tickets per hour, compared to the previous 15 minutes per violation. The device can be used anywhere in the country, though its automatic mode is not currently active in Israel.

Drivers can contest tickets issued by the new device by challenging the photograph if multiple vehicles are present or by claiming someone else was driving. The device requires calibration, cannot be used in adverse weather, and has a photographic range limit of approximately 150 meters. Drivers often rely on navigation apps like Waze to alert them to speed traps, though the effectiveness of these warnings can vary.

The article also details older speed enforcement systems, including the original laser device that requires a physical stop and visual confirmation of the driver, and the "Dvora" radar system (BEE 3 IL) which can operate from moving vehicles but also requires a subsequent stop. Additionally, the long-standing A-3 cameras, in operation since 2013 and responsible for millions of fines, will remain active until at least 2029. Future plans include the introduction of average speed cameras over several kilometers, though their deployment is not expected in the immediate future.

Drivers can attempt to counter the new laser guns using radar and laser detectors, though their effectiveness is limited due to the brief duration of the laser pulse. While laser jammers are illegal in Israel, some drivers may still attempt to use them. The article notes that while radar detectors are legal, the speed of enforcement with the new technology may render them less effective.