Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is dangerous and the tough laws in Washington State haven’t eliminated them. There may be new technology on the horizon to help make our roadways safer. Currently, the government does not require installation of anti-DUI devices or technology on new automobiles. Within the next couple years new technology designed to prevent folks from starting their car and driving if they are over the legal limit for alcohol may actually be mandatory on new vehicles.
Recently, two United States senators, Tom Udall from Utah and Rick Scott from Florida said they plan to introduce legislation that would require every new car sold in the US to have technology that detects an individual’s blood alcohol content (BAC) before allowing them to drive. This technology could help keep people from starting their car or driving after having too much to drink, thereby, making the roadways safer for all of us.
There are a couple different types of BAC detection technologies currently being researched. It’s still unclear which, if any, may ultimately be required in new vehicles. Some ideas include sensors in the steering wheel or sensors in a push button that detect alcohol being released through the driver’s skin. Other ideas include some form of breath alcohol testing similar to the ignition interlock device, which requires a driver to provide a breath sample before the vehicle’s engine will start. These BAC detection systems could lower the number of DUI’s that occur across the nation every day and make traveling on our roadways much safer.
Safer roadways have been the goal of law enforcement and tough DUI laws for decades. If you or a loved one is accused of a DUI or other criminal charge, contact [nap_names id=”FIRM-NAME-4″]. We can help.