Pennsylvania DUI Lawyers Blog
Legislators, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and other interested parties have advocated for legislation mandating that all new vehicles come equipped with alcohol detecting devices to prevent people from driving while intoxicated for the past several years. The US House of Representatives recently enacted the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, that contains an Advanced Impaired Driving Technology (AIDT) provision that Mothers Against Drunk Driving described as the single most significant legislation passed in the organization’s forty-one-year history. While no one disputes the hazards of driving while impaired, mandatory alcohol monitors may infringe on people’s rights and cause a slew of other problems. If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania, it’s in your best interests to speak with a Pennsylvania DUI defense lawyer about your options.
The Proposed Technology
Allegedly, the AIDT section of the Act establishes a threshold that Mothers Against Drunk Driving estimates will avoid nearly ten thousand drunk driving deaths each year. Mothers Against Drunk Driving’s President further stated that the law will basically eliminate the leading cause of mortality on America’s highways. She suggested that technology is required to prevent unsafe driving practices used by those who fail to make the correct decisions when it comes to getting behind the wheel after drinking.
The act provides that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) must to undertake a process to establish rules and set a standard for impaired driving safety systems on all new vehicles within three years. NHTSA is anticipated to evaluate technology such as alcohol detection systems, which use sensors to determine whether a driver is intoxicated and, if so, stop their car from driving. Automobile makers will have two to three years to implement the safety standard once it is established.
Alcohol Sensors in Vehicles: Potential Pitfalls
The ultimate consequence of the AIDT provision is yet unknown. However, if it culminates in the mandatory installation of alcohol detection technology in all automobiles, it may have unexpected consequences. There will be a discrepancy between drivers of older and newer automobiles, which could lead to late-model car drivers being unfairly targeted for suspected DUI.
Furthermore, it is unclear how any alcohol sensing technology will determine a person’s blood alcohol level, as well as what safeguards will be in place to prevent false positives and verify that the driver’s level is being assessed rather than that of a passenger. Additionally, it is unclear how such sensors will be calibrated or maintained to assure their accuracy. Incorrect readings might leave parties trapped, putting them at danger of additional sorts of harm.
Speak to a Trusted Pennsylvania DUI Defense Attorney
A conviction or a DUI crime may not only impact a person’s rights, it may also impair their reputation, relationships, and career. If you are accused of a DUI offense, it is smart to speak to a lawyer to assess your options for seeking a just outcome. Zachary B. Cooper is a trusted Pennsylvania DUI defense lawyer who can advise you of your rights and help you to seek the best outcome available under the facts of your case You can reach Mr. Cooper via the form online or at (215) 542-0800 to set up a meeting.