Breathalyzer-embedded Steering Wheels Could Save Lives

Breathalyzer-embedded Steering Wheels Could Save Lives

  • By Ginger Hill
  • Jun 10, 2015

Less than two years ago, Texas led the nation with 1,337 deaths caused by drunk drivers, according to MADD, and over at TXDOT.gov, various reports about driving under the influence and alcohol-involved crashes can be found. (I’m sure every state has this information readily available.) In the face of such personal safety, the IoT vertical is stepping up with the creation and research of the technology Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS).

This technology is equipped with a breathalyzer housed in the steering wheel along with an infrared sensor that scans the skin, both of which check a potential driver’s blood alcohol concentration. If it’s at or above the legal limit in all 50 state of 0.08, the car will lock down.

Supporters of DADSS include car brands such as BMW, Ford and General Motors as they say this technology could save thousands of lives each year. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) indicates that nearly 10,000 people are killed every year by crashes that involve alcohol. DOT estimates that 7,000 lives per year could be saved by these in-car alcohol sensors.

About the Author

Ginger Hill is Group Social Media Manager.

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