Mandatory Breathalysers?
The UK government is considering a new proposal, to require all new cars to have in-built mandatory breathalysers fitted by manufacturers.
Alongside this proposed measure, they are also considering the inclusion of Event Data Recorders (EDRs) in all new cars. These are more commonly known as ‘black boxes’, and are already compulsory throughout the European Union.
Drink-drive Incidents
After a low in 2015, fatalities in drink-drive incidents have steadily risen over the last ten years. Statistics show that in 2022, there were 300 deaths and around 6800 casualties involved in road traffic accidents where drivers were over the legal alcohol limit.
Under the new measure, manufacturers would fit an ‘alcohol interlock’ device to all new vehicles at the factory. This device, requires the driver to breathe into it before the engine can be started. If the recorded level is above the legal limit, then the engine simply will not start.
These devices are apparently already in use in some other countries, particularly to deter those who have already been convicted of drink driving offences.
Electronic Data Recorders
The EDR is designed to record vehicle information in the lead up to a collision, such as speed, steering control, and braking forces. Officials will then examine this evidence to determine the causes of any road traffic accident.
As is often the case, there are potential problems with a scheme such as this. Motoring organisations generally support the principle, particularly where installation may help to prevent re-offending. But there are other matters to consider, such as the cost of installation. Also, some have raised issues surrounding privacy and use of personal data when officials collect information from the EDRs.
Many cars already feature a number of electronic safety devices. These include controls that warn the driver if they drift across lanes, or systems that take over braking if the driver is late to react to danger. The owner of the vehicle can normally turn these off however, should they wish not to use them.
The use of compulsory systems such as mandatory breathalysers, alcohol interlocks and EDRs however, are a subject for much debate. We will probably hear more about this towards the end of the year.