Did you know that drunk driving causes more than 10,000 deaths a year? The consequences of drunk driving are steep, and the deaths that occur are completely preventable.
You can even get arrested, so you should also learn what to do after a DUI arrest. However, when people continue to get behind the wheel after drinking, how do you address it? The good news is that there is new technology evolving that can help address this very problem.
Keep reading to find out how technology might be able to stop drunk drivers.
Alcohol Detection Systems
One technology getting created that could help stop drunk driving are alcohol detection systems. There are several ways this could be implemented.
Currently, one system already available is an ignition interlock device. This system requires the driver to blow into a mouthpiece, and the car will not start if you have been drinking.
Not every state requires these. However, states like Virginia do; if you’ve been charged with a DUI, and you’re wondering if you will need this device for your vehicle, you can visit this page to find a lawyer to talk to. Some people might be required to install the device before conviction.
Another device detects alcohol in perspiration on your palm. If you try to put your car in gear ad drive, the system will lock your transmission.
The Driver Alcohol Detection System is a technology that is still under development. With this system, alcohol is detected in the ambient air.
Unlike the ignition interlock device, you don’t have to breathe into something specific.
Driver Monitoring
If you ever feel like big brother is watching, this system might amp up that feeling. This will use cameras and sensors to detect whether you’re driving under the influence or driving distracted.
If it senses that you are, it does the following:
- Alerts a call center
- Reduces the speed of the car
- Stops self-drive cars
This is another system that’s not available yet but could be readily available in the future.
Ridesharing
If you’re looking for current help for drunk drivers, you’re not left without options. If you’ve been drinking, make the choice to not drive.
Ridesharing apps are becoming more and more popular. You can easily grab an Uber or Lyft and stay safe while obeying drunk driving laws.
Smartphone Apps
Did you know that there are smartphone apps that can help you not drive drunk? If you’re worried about whether or not you’ve had a few too many, there are apps that can act as breathalyzers with an attached device.
This is great if you’re not sure if you can trust your own judgment. There are also apps that can help you make a plan with names and phone numbers you can call when you’ve been drinking.
The problem with smartphone apps is that you have to actually use the resource.
Stop Drunk Driving
The consequences of drunk driving can be devastating. Fortunately, there are many technologies already present and being developed to help prevent it.
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