What is meant by 'false readings' in speed measurement?

False readings in speed measurement refer to measurements that are affected by unintended targets or improper use of the speed measurement device. This could happen in various scenarios, such as when the radar or lidar equipment inadvertently captures the speed of another vehicle or object in the vicinity rather than the intended target. Additionally, if the speed measurement device is not calibrated or used correctly, it can yield inaccurate results. These inaccuracies are critical because they can lead to misinterpretations of a vehicle's actual speed, potentially resulting in wrongful citations or a misunderstanding of traffic conditions.

The other options do not adequately capture the essence of what constitutes a false reading. Readings taken at night might be influenced by visibility conditions, but they are not inherently false due to the time of day. Readings during rush hour could still be accurate if taken correctly. Similarly, a reading that falls below the speed limit is not automatically false; it may correctly reflect the speed of the vehicle. Therefore, false readings specifically involve scenarios where the measurement is compromised due to external factors or improper usage of the measurement tools.