Web site advises speeding drivers

By SUSIE XU
Collegian Staff Writer

An Internet site may prove itself helpful in keeping speeding motorists from getting caught in the act.

Self-proclaimed speeder Andrew Warner, 23, created the World Wide Web site www.speedtrap.com in 1995 as a collection of known speed traps in the United States and abroad.

Warner, a network engineer in Atlanta, Ga., said he did not create the Web site in response to anything in particular.

"It's just an idea that came to mind and it seemed like a good idea," he said.

The registry welcomes new trap listings from anyone willing to contribute.

About 18,000 people from all over the world have submitted traps to the registry, Warner said, and have had their listings posted on the site.

The site lists known traps by states and countries in alphabetical order and provides helpful advice when driving through each region, including what kind of devices are legal for police to use and how closely speed limits are followed in that particular area.

Despite the nature of the driving tips, Warner said he did not create the Web site in order to undermine the police.

"I'm not out to make it more difficult on the police and interfere with their job," Warner said.

Clp. Rick Ososkie of the State College Police Department does not view the site as obstructing law enforcement efforts.

"It actually helps us out. If (motorists) know where we're at and they slow down, that's what we're looking for," he said.

Although Ososkie said he has never personally visited the Web site, he has heard several speed traps listed in State College are accurate.

But others have expressed opposition to the Web site, Warner said. He added many people, including religious groups and mayors, have threatened and sometimes attempted to sue him.

Even so, Warner plans to expand the registry and hopes to redesign the site with more interactive on-the-road tips. The Web site also continues to become more popular, especially abroad, where Warner said many do not trust their law enforcement officials and try to outsmart them. About 100,000 people worldwide visit the site weekly.

Eric Skrum, communications director of the National Motorists Association, said he visits the site frequently and advises others to do so, especially prior to travelling.

"If I were taking a big trip, I would take a look at the Web site," Skrum said.