In the not so far off future, you may be able to purchase a vehicle equipped with anti-drunk driving safety technology.
An experienced Denver car accident attorney takes a look at research to develop technology that could end drunk driving. Contact us if you’ve been hurt by a drunk driver.
In fact, while lawmakers and regulators have already developed mockups of these devices that will be put into testing very soon, they expect their research to be wrapped up within five years, at which time this technology could be available to vehicle fleets.
The technology in question, which has been developed as part of the DADSS (Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety) program, can reportedly analyze drivers’ sobriety or intoxication via:
- Breath – Similar to how a breathalyzer device works, this innovative device would prevent vehicles from turning on if, after a driver breathes into the device, his BAC is detected to be 0.08 or greater.
- Skin – This version of the technology relies on a laser, illuminating it on a driver’s fingertip to assess intoxication and also preventing a vehicle from turning on for drivers who are legally intoxicated.
Background on the DADSS Program
Started in 2008, the DADSS program represents a coalition between regulators, industry and safety advocates to focus on solving the preventable problem of drunk driving.
Joining NHTSA’s regulators’ efforts are some lawmakers, the Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety (ACTS) and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). The groundbreaking collaboration between these organizations has been identified as being pivotal to the progress made thus far.
Reactions to DADSS Device, Progress of Anti-Drunk Driving Technology
Speaking to the remarkable progress DADSS has made thus far, NHTSA Administrator Mark Rosekind has stated:
There is still a great deal of work to do, but support from Congress and industry has helped us achieve key research and development milestones…DADSS has enormous potential to prevent drunk driving in specific populations such as teen drivers and commercial fleets, and making it an option available to vehicle owners would provide a powerful new tool in the battle against drunk driving deaths.
President and CEO of ACTS Rob Strassburger expressed similar thoughts, stating:
Public-private research partnerships like DADSS have led to innovations that enhance our everyday lives, such as the Internet, GPS and the microchip. Now we have our sights set on inventing a world without drunk driving…There’s more work to be done, but through this broad coalition of support, we are driven to successfully complete this life-saving technology.
Additionally, MADD National President Colleen Sheehey-Church has noted in regards to this research and work that, “This technology represents the future, when one day drunk driving will be relegated to the history books…While we still have a lot of work to do, we are closer than ever to eliminating drunk driving.”
Denver Car Accident Attorney at Cederberg Law
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident – or if you have lost a loved one in a motor vehicle accident, contact a Denver car accident attorney at the Cederberg Law to find out more about your best options for financial recovery.
To meet with us at no cost or obligation to you, call us at 303-499-0449 or email us using the form at the side of the screen.
In addition to offering free initial consults and contingency fee options, our lawyers make hospital visits to ensure that you have access to the legal support you need – whenever you need it.
