The dangers of drinking and driving are numerous and deadly. Currently, there is technology currently in place that can prevent drivers previously convicted of drunk driving from being able to drive. A breathalyzer in the vehicle must be used before the ignition can be turned. If the person fails the breathalyzer, the ignition will remain locked.

In this Drunk Drivers Rights guide we discuss promising technologies that may help prevent drunk driving.

Research is ongoing to find other technologies that might prevent drunk driving and the injuries and death it often causes. Once new technologies exist, they could be applied to vehicles of drivers convicted of DUI. They could also be added to existing vehicles or come as an option on new cars. No doubt, lawmakers in some states would want to make them mandatory equipment on all new vehicles which would lead to significant debate.

Two Promising Technologies to Prevent Drunk Driving

1. The first technology actually takes existing breath-analysis technology and applies it in a new way. Very sensitive sensors would be placed in locations such as the steering wheel or roof that would pick up the presence of alcohol in the breath of the person behind the wheel. The difficulty is in producing sensors that can be both very sensitive and accurate. Determining blood alcohol concentration from breath at a distance is a challenge researchers have not yet conquered.

2. The second technology involves determining blood alcohol content by measuring it in the skin of the person turning the ignition. An infrared light is used for the measurement, and it is said to measure fairly accurately in just .5 seconds. The gear shift has also been suggested as a location for the sensors. Obvious hurdles to overcome for developers include what to do if the driver is wearing gloves and the impact that spilled alcohol or even something like hand sanitizer may have on the accuracy of the sensor.

While these technologies continue to be developed and tested, their introduction is not imminent. The best guess is that they will available in an accurate, affordable form in 6-8 years. Other promising technologies include facial monitoring systems using a camera that would detect signs of drowsiness. If detected, an alert would sound and the seat belt would momentarily snug up to get the driver’s attention.

Finally, sensors are being developed to monitor the performance of the vehicle. If it is swerving or moving erratically, similar signals would be sent to the driver. Getting drunk drivers to realize their condition and get off the road will reduce the number of drunken driving accidents. These technologies are further off and may be better suited to protect tired drivers, but they may have application for drunk drivers too.

To learn more about DUI attorneys, Federal DUI laws, State DUI laws, and terms relating to drunk driving , please visit our helpful articles and guides.