Unlike celebrities who like flashlights, a flash usually doesn't mean anything good for drivers: They were probably caught driving too fast. A speed camera warning device that warns of such checks would be very helpful. But the question is: are these devices even allowed? Are there differences between speed camera apps and warning devices built into sat navs? We look at the relevant laws and explain what penalties you face if you break these rules. In short: We explain what is and isn't allowed when it comes to speed camera warning devices.
Different types of warning devices
Speed camera warnings are designed to alert drivers to radar traps and other speed checks in good time, giving them the opportunity to adjust their speed. Below we introduce you to the three most common types of speed camera warnings and explain how they work:
radar detectors
One of the most expensive ways to protect yourself from speed cameras is to use warning devices. These devices use special technology to search for laser or radar beams within a radius of several hundred meters. As soon as they receive a corresponding signal, they emit either an acoustic or optical signal that warns the driver of a nearby speed trap. A radar detector can also be combined excellently with a dashcam. Dashcams are used to record journeys and can be used as evidence in the event of an accident. Some dashcams now also offer a speed trap notification, which can be activated in the camera settings.
speed camera apps
Speed camera apps are practical helpers when you're on the go: They use your smartphone's GPS to warn you about fixed speed traps. On a digital map, you can see exactly where the speed cameras are and how fast you can drive there. When you approach a trap, the app sounds an alarm. The data in the app is constantly updated by a large user community, so you're always up to date. Such apps are usually free, but there are also paid versions with additional functions such as traffic jam warnings or the display of accident black spots.
navigation devices with speed camera function
Modern navigation devices are not just signposts, they are also your personal safety assistants. With a special speed camera map that you can easily download, your navigation system warns you in good time about fixed speed traps. A symbol on the map and an acoustic signal alert you to the danger. This allows you to adjust your speed and avoid unpleasant traffic tickets.
The legal situation in Germany
In Germany, any automated warning of speed measuring devices of any kind is prohibited by law. The legal basis for this is Section 23 Paragraph 1c of the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), which prohibits the operation of devices that display or interfere with traffic monitoring measures. This ban not only applies to classic radar detectors, but also to speed camera apps on smartphones or in navigation devices.
However, a distinction is made between simply carrying a switched-off device, which is generally permitted, and using it while it is operational, which is prohibited. If road users are caught using a speed camera warning device, they face a fine of currently 75 euros. In addition, in some federal states, a point can be added to the driver's aptitude register.
If the police find a radar detector that is switched on and working during a traffic check, they are allowed to confiscate it and, in the worst case, even destroy it. However, it is questionable whether the police are allowed to do the same with navigation devices or cell phones.
Gray areas and legal alternatives
Fortunately, there are legal ways to find out about possible speed cameras. The simplest and most well-known method is traffic announcements on the radio. Many radio stations inform their listeners about current speed camera locations. These announcements are permitted because they do not reveal specific locations, but rather provide general traffic information. They do not specifically warn you about a speed camera directly in front of you, but rather provide general information about possible controls in the broadcast area.
The same applies to information on social media such as Facebook, where inaccurate lists of speed camera locations are often shared. This information is generally legal as long as you don't search for it on your phone while driving.
You can also research possible speed camera locations before your trip, print them out and take them with you in the car.
Another legal option is to use devices such as the Ooono Co-Driver. This device gets its data from Blitzer.de and warns about speed cameras and other dangerous areas. Since it is not a classic radar detector, but is based on a database that is updated by users, its use is legal in Germany.
