How Technology is Helping Reduce DUIs in North Dakota
11th March 2020
Driving under the influence of alcohol is never a good idea. Alcohol consumption slows down brain activity and affects a person’s body reflexes and the ability to judge their surroundings properly.
Drunk driving is a serious problem. It can not only result in DUIs but in serious accidents leading to injuries and death.
New Technologies Reduce Drunk Driving and Make Roads Safer
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, almost 30 people die in drunk driving crashes everyday in the United States, totaling up to 10,000 deaths each year. 17% of the victims are minors.
Fortunately, people are becoming more aware of the dangers related to drunk driving. Many are choosing not to get behind the wheel after having a drink. Modern technology also comes in handy with various applications designed to warn drivers about their blood alcohol level and to offer an alternative to driving.
Ridesharing Apps
Ridesharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are an affordable, safe, and convenient alternative to regular cabs. With the click of a button, you can locate a driver in minutes. You can even pay, tip, and leave a review from your smartphone.
Such services are a lifesaver when it comes to deciding whether or not to drive under the influence. Their convenience makes them the smart choice for everyone who wants to be responsible and cautious about their life and the lives of others.
Smartphone Apps
- BACtrack: BACtrack is a breathalyzer device that connects with your smartphone via Bluetooth and offers an accurate blood alcohol concentration reading. It also lets you know how much time it would take for your BAC to return to 0.000%.
- DrinkControl: An application for iPhone users designed to track how many drinks a person has had for a certain period of time. It then compares the data to drinking guidelines set by leading health organizations. The app lets you know when you are over the legal limit. It even estimates how much money you’ve spent on alcohol.
- AlcoDroid: An app for Android users that determines the blood alcohol concentration based on how many drinks a person has entered into the log. The application displays weekly and monthly alcohol consumption statistics and tracks the cost of alcohol.
- Endui: Similar to DrinkControl and AlcoDroid, Endui is a drink tracking app that does not include a built-in breathalyzer test but relies on the data entered by the user to determine if it is safe to drive. The software measures approximate blood alcohol content based on height, weight, and number of drinks consumed. It also includes reflex games and DUI facts. Additionally, it has the option to call a designated driver or to report a drunk driver.
- Have a Plan: Like most drinking apps, Have a Plan also lets the user estimate their blood alcohol concentration based on their height, weight, and number of drinks consumed. This application collects names, numbers, and addresses of people close to the user. It then uses that information to find user’s a ride if they are unable to drive. The app has a built-in GPS and taxi locating feature, reflex games, and ways to report a DWI situation.
Ignition Interlock Devices
Ignition interlock devices, such as LifeSafer, also referred to as “in-car breathalyzers,” won’t let a car start before a breath test has been performed. The device registers the blood alcohol concentration of the driver. If the driver’s BAC is over the pre-set limit, the vehicle will not start. Some devices are also equipped with cameras and real-time reporting features to prevent driving under the influence of alcohol.
Regulations for Driver Alcohol Detection
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has invested millions of dollars into the research and development of the DADSS technology that prevents a car from starting if the driver operating it is intoxicated above the legal limits.
Such technology is installed in the steering wheel or push-button ignition in new cars to detect the driver’s BAC. Additionally, there might be breath and eye movement sensors to help determine BAC.
Proposed new legislation by two US senators would result in driver alcohol detection systems being installed in all new cars within four years of the bill’s passing. However, it is still unclear how such technology will be implemented in used vehicles.
The DADSS research program began in 2008 and currently represents 17 automobile manufacturers and NHTSA.
Were You Arrested for DUI in North Dakota?
Consider hiring an attorney if you have been arrested for a DUI in North Dakota. An experienced DUI lawyer can handle your case and defend your charge. DUIs are never simple. Sometimes chemical tests are administered incorrectly or law enforcement officers pull a driver over without legit cause.
Schedule your free consultation with our legal team at Sand Law PLLC by contacting us online or by calling 701-609-1510. Working with the right attorney will ensure the best possible outcome for your case.