Drunk Driving Detection Technology Could Be Coming to Michigan

There’s a push at the federal level to make sure future cars can tell when someone behind the wheel is drunk and stop them from driving. And honestly, the idea could save thousands of lives…if it actually works.

According to ABC 12, this all started after a Michigan family was killed by a drunk driver in 2019. Not long after, the idea was worked into a big federal infrastructure bill.

How the Drunk Driving Detection Tech Would Work

If this ever fully rolls out, new cars would come with technology that works quietly in the background. Drivers wouldn’t have to deal with a breathalyzer, pulling over, or anything like that. It’s just tech designed to recognize impairment before someone even starts driving.

Apparently, the tech already exists and could be a real game-changer for driver safety if it actually works. That’s the big concern. Will it actually work?

Biggest Concerns With Drunk Driving Detection Tech

The biggest concern is what happens if the tech gets it wrong. Critics worry a car could stop a driver who isn’t actually impaired, and that’s what makes a lot of people uneasy. Imagine hopping in your car and suddenly not being able to drive home. That would be a huge problem.

Timeline for Drunk Driving Detection Tech

Right now, regulators are still sorting through the tech, and carmakers want more time to test it. Realistically, this is still years away from showing up in new cars.

Personally, I like the idea, especially if it works and saves lives. Most of the resistance comes from people worried about false alarms or from those who still think drinking and driving isn’t a big deal.