The government is considering radical new safety measures that would require new cars to be fitted with black boxes to monitor speed, triggering an alarm when drivers exceed the limit, such as 30mph on residential roads. This is part of a broader road safety strategy aimed at reducing deaths and injuries.
Breathalysers and Other Measures
Other proposed steps include built-in breathalysers that prevent cars from starting unless the driver provides a negative sample. The government is also considering lowering the drink-driving limit, mandatory eyesight tests for older motorists, and penalty points for seatbelt offenders.
Public Support for Safety Devices
A survey found that 74% of motorists support black boxes as standard for newly qualified drivers. Additionally, 49% strongly support and 29% somewhat support mandatory built-in breathalysers in new vehicles.
Greg Wilson, motoring expert at Quotezone, said: “With the Government planning to make breathalysers and black boxes mandatory in new cars, we wanted to understand how drivers feel about these safety measures. While these devices are still relatively new to a lot of motorists, the survey reveals strong support across the UK and it’s clear that drivers recognise the potential of breathalysers and black boxes to encourage safer habits behind the wheel.”
Wilson added: “Of course, introducing these features raises questions around privacy and data use, which will need to be carefully addressed to ensure public confidence, but it is encouraging to see public attitude towards drink-driving, with two thirds of drivers backing measures that could save lives and improve road safety. Implementing these devices could also allow insurers to set more accurate pricing for motorists that continuously drive safely.”
Impact on Insurance and Safety
Fitting black boxes could improve safety and build trust between drivers and insurers, potentially lowering premiums for careful drivers. The government's road safety drive aims to cut the number of casualties on UK roads.
