by Key Points of the Legislative Initiative
The Problem of Speeding Violations in Arizona
Given the numerous empty roads in the state of Arizona, drivers often receive fines for speeding from patrol police officers. This is especially true for those who cannot control their right foot on the gas pedal and risk losing their driver’s licenses altogether.
Essence of the Legislative Proposal
Arizona legislators are considering passing a law that would allow drivers facing the risk of license loss to choose an alternative – installing speed-limiting devices in their vehicles. This technology will actively prevent the vehicle from exceeding established limits.
Author and Status of the Bill
The author of the bill is Representative Quang Nguyen, who plans to present it when the state legislature resumes work in January. Nguyen is working with two representatives from companies that manufacture speed-limiting devices – Smart Start and LifeSafer, and is trying to gain support.
Technological Features of the System
A combination of cellular signals and GPS data is used to determine the current speed limit on the road the vehicle is traveling on. Electronics connected to the vehicle’s ECU guarantee that it will not exceed this limit, regardless of how hard the driver presses the gas pedal.
Cost and Override Function
According to Nguyen’s estimates, the systems will cost about $250 for installation and $4 per day for operation. To prevent criticism that sometimes vehicles need to violate speed limits to avoid danger, the equipment will include an override mode, allowing a temporary speed increase of 10 mph (16 km/h) three times per month.
Criticism and Potential Problems
Not only speed violators will be able to use the scheme under the terms of the proposed bill. Those convicted of racing, reckless and aggressive driving may also benefit, although the final decision will remain with the court.
Experience of Other States
Other states, including Virginia, Washington, and the District of Columbia, have already adopted similar laws, and Wisconsin is currently considering the same. However, Nguyen previously tried but failed to pass the same basic bill in Arizona. At that time, the speed-limiting technology was supposed to be mandatory, but this time it will be optional.
Arguments of Opponents
Critics argue that speed-limiting technology is not yet developed enough to reliably identify all speed limits, which could be dangerous. Others are concerned about data protection and government interference issues, as noted by Representative Alexander Kolodin, warning that passing the law opens “dangerous doors.”
This legislative initiative reflects a broader trend towards using technological solutions for road safety problems, but also raises important questions about the balance between public safety and individual freedoms. The effectiveness of such systems will largely depend on the accuracy of the speed limit identification technology and the ability to adapt to diverse road conditions, which remains a technical challenge for developers of such systems.
