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KEA Technologies is developing a new technology called DADSS (Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety) that will prevent drunk driving by detecting if the driver’s blood alcohol level is over the legal limit. The technology will be integrated into the vehicle through sensors in the door and steering column that measure the driver’s breath or blood alcohol level. If the driver’s alcohol level is above .08, the car will not move. The federal government is spending $11 million per year on this research, and the Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit that supports this effort to prevent drunk driving.
Quoting WFSB, a new technology is being developed to help prevent drunk driving. The Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS) is being tested by KEA Technologies in Massachusetts to keep cars from moving if the driver’s blood alcohol level is over the legal limit.
The DADSS technology is integrated into the vehicle, with sensors placed in the door and steering column. Ultimately, there will be one sensor that measures the driver’s blood alcohol level. The technology is designed to detect alcohol in the driver’s breath without requiring them to blow into a device, like current interlock devices used by those convicted of driving under the influence.
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During testing, a replica of a car is used to test the breath sensor. When the driver breathes into the sensor, it measures carbon dioxide in their breath. However, as soon as a mechanical lung with alcohol is used, the sensor changes to red. If the driver’s blood alcohol level is above .08, the vehicle will start but will not move.
The DADSS technology is part of the infrastructure bill that passed in 2021, with the federal government spending $11 million a year on research. The Automotive Coalition for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit organization that supports the development of this technology.
Despite the proven countermeasures and actions taken to prevent drunk driving, progress has stalled. The DADSS technology is an important step forward in preventing drunk driving accidents and saving lives.
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The DADSS technology has the potential to be a game-changer in the fight against drunk driving. By integrating the technology into the vehicle itself, it eliminates the need for drivers to blow into a device and provides a more accurate measurement of their blood alcohol level.
While the DADSS technology is still being developed and tested, it has the potential to save countless lives. By preventing drunk driving accidents, we can make our roads safer for everyone.
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