What does shadowing mean in the context of speed detection?

In the context of speed detection, shadowing refers to the practice of pacing another vehicle to measure its speed. This technique involves a law enforcement officer positioning their vehicle in close proximity to the vehicle being monitored. By maintaining a consistent distance and speed relative to that vehicle, the officer can effectively gauge the other vehicle's speed without relying solely on speed detection devices.

Shadowing is particularly useful because it allows officers to observe driving behavior in real-time, which can be useful in determining if a driver is violating speed limits. The distance maintained during this practice is critical; following too closely can lead to dangerous situations, which is why law enforcement training emphasizes maintaining a safe following distance while still effectively monitoring speeds.

Although following too closely might seem like a plausible answer in this context, shadowing actually focuses on the technique of pacing another vehicle while monitoring its speed. This distinction is important for understanding speed detection methods and proper enforcement practices.