Laser is almost impossible to detect AND avoid because it is highly targeted (both in time and space -- quick and narrow beam) as opposed to standard (radio wave) radar that sends a very wide beam for a long time. So at the very moment you detect it you are basically fried (smth like a bullet). In rare occasions you may detect a reflection off of someone else being shot (like perfectlap was lucky to experience). The more reflecting surfaces (cars) there are the higher the chance for a reflection but in that scenario I've learned that observing the behavior and brake-lights ahead is a better indicator for trouble than the detector.
I probably just jinxed myself right now...
