PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Arizona drivers convicted of criminal speeding could soon face a choice: lose their license or have speed-limiting technology installed in their vehicle.
State Rep. Quang Nguyen of Yavapai County plans to introduce legislation in January that would allow courts to order Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) devices on vehicles of people convicted of criminal speeding. The technology prevents cars, trucks and SUVs from exceeding posted speed limits using a small device attached to the vehicle.
“Instead of being punished and lose the ability to keep your home, keep your job, drive to the grocery store or take the kids to school, you now have an opportunity to have this product installed in your car and now you can go to work and be productive again,” Nguyen said.
How the technology works
The anti-speeding device uses cellular or GPS signals to determine a vehicle’s location and the speed limit for that area. If a driver attempts to exceed the limit, the device impacts the accelerator.
“It’s essentially a dead pedal. You can floor the car and vehicle just won’t accelerate beyond what posted limit is,” said Toby Taylor of the Steer Safe Partnership, which created the device.
The technology can be installed in any vehicle and works automatically without driver input. If someone tries to disable the device, a notification is sent to the manufacturer, who then alerts authorities.
Addressing traffic safety concerns
Excessive speed is the second leading cause of traffic fatalities in Arizona, behind driving under the influence. The statistic has prompted lawmakers and law enforcement agencies to search for solutions to make streets and highways safer.
The proposed legislation comes as other states adopt similar measures. Virginia and Washington became the first states, along with Washington, D.C., to pass laws allowing anti-speeding devices for reckless drivers earlier this year.
Arizona, New York, Georgia and Florida are expected to consider the technology as well.
“We suspect there will be several states that pass legislation next year,” Taylor said.
The speed-limiting devices share similarities with ignition interlock systems required for DUI offenders, which require drivers to pass a breathalyzer test before starting their vehicle.
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