What happens if radar beams are obstructed?

When radar beams are obstructed, the accuracy of speed readings is compromised. Radar operates by emitting radio waves that bounce off moving objects and return to the radar unit, allowing it to calculate the speed of those objects based on the Doppler effect. If there is an obstruction, such as a vehicle, structure, or even heavy foliage, it can interfere with the radar waves, leading to incorrect or erratic speed readings.

Obstructions can cause multiple issues, such as causing the radar to pick up unintended signals from adjacent objects or reflecting the waves in unexpected ways. This interference results in a failure to provide a clear and accurate speed of the target vehicle, which is crucial for law enforcement when enforcing speed limits.

In contrast, other options suggest that readings would either increase significantly, have no effect, or that the radar would recalibrate automatically. These scenarios do not accurately reflect the impact of obstructions on radar functionality, as clear paths for radar beams are essential for precise and reliable measurements.