New Law: Cars to Mandate Anti-Drunk Driving Technology

Landmark Legislation Aims to Eliminate Drunk Driving

A significant effort to combat drunk driving is underway as Congress advances President Biden’s infrastructure bill. This legislation incorporates a requirement for anti-drunk driving technology in all newly manufactured vehicles, as previously covered.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has now been approved by Congress, retaining this crucial provision, according to Autoblog (AP). Presidential signature is anticipated shortly.

Mandated Technology for Impaired Driver Detection

Automobile manufacturers will be obligated to integrate technology capable of detecting and preventing operation by impaired drivers, potentially as early as 2026.

The Department of Transportation will initially be tasked with identifying the most effective method for reducing incidents of driving under the influence.

The bill specifically calls for a system that can “passively monitor the performance of a driver” to accurately assess potential impairment.

Sam Abuelsamid, principal mobility analyst for Guidehouse Insights, suggests this aligns with existing infrared camera technologies utilized by companies like GM and Nissan, as reported by the AP.

More sophisticated solutions than traditional breathalyzers – currently employed as a consequence for those convicted of drunk driving – will be necessary.

Addressing a Critical Safety Issue

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that approximately 10,000 fatalities occur annually in the United States due to drunk driving-related crashes.

With advancements in sensor technology and driver monitoring cameras, exploring preventative measures to reduce these accidents is a logical step.

It is projected that within the next ten years, such safety features will become as ubiquitous as seatbelts.

Additional Safety Enhancements

Beyond addressing drunk driving, the infrastructure bill includes other vital safety measures.

These include rear seat reminders designed to alert parents if a child is left unattended in a car seat.

Furthermore, Congress is mandating the inclusion of automatic emergency braking and lane departure warnings, features already present in many current vehicle models.

While the widespread adoption of fully self-driving cars remains uncertain, these advancements will provide increased safety for human drivers in the interim.

Note: This report was originally published on Engadget.