The battle against drink and drug driving has taken a significant turn with the introduction of cutting-edge technology in our vehicles. From July 7, a new era begins as all new cars sold in the UK and Europe will be equipped with advanced driver monitoring systems (DMS). These systems, utilizing infrared cameras, AI, and specialized algorithms, aim to detect if a driver is impaired, distracted, or fatigued.
One of the key players in this technological advancement is Seeing Machines, an Australian manufacturer that has developed a DMS system installed in the rear-view mirror. I had the opportunity to test drive a Volkswagen T-Roc with this technology, and I must say, it was an eye-opening experience. The system was unobtrusive, issuing audible alerts only after a deliberate lapse in attention, and it demonstrated its ability to intervene safely if the situation demanded it.
Matthew Avery, a strategic development director at Euro NCAP, believes that these DMS systems have the potential to be as impactful as seatbelts in terms of safety. However, concerns around privacy and the intrusive nature of the technology are valid. Avery acknowledges these worries but emphasizes the potential safety benefits, which, in his opinion, outweigh the privacy concerns.
The accuracy of these systems is a critical aspect that cannot be overlooked. Existing DMS has faced criticism for a high number of false alerts, which can be frustrating for drivers and may lead to the systems being disabled. To address this, car manufacturers and suppliers are developing combined warning systems that integrate various signals, such as physiological data and steering inputs, to reduce false alerts.
While in-car monitoring holds promise, the current measures to combat drink and drug driving are not without flaws. Ross Moorlock, CEO of the road safety charity Brake, highlights the inadequacy of current enforcement methods. Thousands of motorists driving under the influence evade roadside checks, and the lengthy process of blood testing for drug-driving cases often results in suspects continuing to drive, leading to potential fatal collisions.
Reoffending is another significant concern, especially for drug-driving offenders. According to IAM RoadSmart, drug-drive re-offending rates are surging, with a 134% increase in recorded offenses from 2020 to 2024. Carole Whittingham, a trustee of road safety charities CADD and SCARD, has personal experience with this issue. Her son, Steven, was killed by a car thief under the influence of alcohol and drugs, and the perpetrator, with a history of driving offenses, received a sentence that many consider too lenient.
Whittingham and other campaigners advocate for a zero-tolerance approach to alcohol and an increase in the number of road traffic officers to act as a deterrent. Alcohol interlocks, or alcolocks, are also recommended for convicted drink-driving offenders, but they too have faced criticism for false positives and the need for regular recalibration.
For drug-driving, a change in the law to allow the use of saliva tests as evidence is proposed. Ean Lewin, CEO of D.tec International, argues that this would enable faster removal of drugged drivers from the roads, benefiting society as a whole.
In-car monitoring, with its potential to save lives, offers a promising long-term solution. While concerns about personal liberty are understandable, it's worth remembering that similar debates surrounded the introduction of seatbelts, which are now widely accepted as a life-saving innovation. As we move forward, the balance between safety and privacy will continue to be a topic of discussion and evolution.
