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Technology may stop impaired driving

On Behalf of | Apr 15, 2019 | Drunk Driving Accidents

In 2017, there were 10,874 deaths caused by traffic accidents involving drunk drivers in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Volvo is going to try to make Virginia roads safer by using technology to reduce the chances that a person will drive while influenced by alcohol. The technology is expected to be included in vehicles produced early in the next decade.

Volvo says that a vehicle could be compelled to slow down or park itself in a safe place if it detects an intoxicated or distracted driver. A camera would look for signs of distraction or impairment. Potential symptoms include a lack of input on a steering wheel or a driver with his or her eyes closed. Sensors would also be on the lookout for slower reaction times or excessive swerving.

By taking control of a vehicle from an impaired driver, it can protect that person as well as anyone else on the road. It can be one part of overcoming a common belief that a person can drive safely after consuming alcohol. The introduction of sensors and cameras is part of a larger safety push that Volvo is making. Starting in 2020, its vehicles will not be able to reach speeds faster than 112 miles per hour.

An individual who has been involved in an accident with a drunk driver may be entitled to compensation for crash-related injuries. The family of someone killed by a drunk driver may also be entitled to compensation. The attorney could review a case to determine whether to settle or take it to trial. In some cases, a lawsuit may be filed to avoid issues related to the state’s statute of limitations. Even if a lawsuit is filed, the case may still be settled.