Technology will detect if a vehicle is driven by a drunk driver

In Tennessee and across the nation, driving under the influence is one of the most common causes of auto accidents. Advanced technology may reduce the number of collisions, injuries and fatalities due to drunk driving. These advancements might also be useful after there has been a crash to help show that the driver was under the influence.

The auto manufacturer Volvo is creating technology that can determine when a driver is impaired. It is expected to be operational within the next five years. A breath test will not be needed. Instead, the system will use cameras. While cameras are already in use in several types of vehicles for unsafe driving, the ability to detect an impaired driver is new.

Volvo’s innovation will assess how drivers are behaving based on action or inaction. That includes the driver failing to steer, having their eyes closed, going off the road, weaving into other lanes or showing slowed reactions. These are some common hallmarks of a driver who is under the influence. When the system detects that a driver is impaired, the vehicle will automatically slow down and park safely. The last step would be the vehicle calling the driver and sending emergency responder assistance if there is no response.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that approximately 11,000 people die in drunk driving accidents annually. This is the most common cause of auto fatalities. While Volvo’s innovation will benefit people in the future, it is not presently in use. Even when it is implemented, the technology might not work as planned. When there is a car accident, it may be essential to know if it was due to a drunk driver. For a successful legal filing, a law firm experienced in car accidents may help.