Could Intelligent Speed Assist Prevent Teen Speeding Accidents?

Is it possible for Intelligent Speed Assist systems to prevent accidents caused by speeding teenagers? As cars become more technologically advanced, this is a question that automakers and legislators are considering. While these devices may help reduce the risk, parents can use more effective options to slow their teen drivers down on the road.

The EU Is the First To Act

Last year, the European Commission issued new rules that require all newly manufactured light vehicles in the European Union to be equipped with mandatory Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA) systems by 2022. European regulators argue that this step will reduce motor vehicle accidents by as much as 30%. Currently, many vehicles manufactured by Ford and Fiat are already outfitted with these devices.

ISA Isn’t a Silver Bullet

There are a lot of misconceptions about ISA systems. Parents eager to see these installed on their teenager’s car should be aware that these systems are not speed limiters. They are not a silver bullet that will stop a driver from speeding because they don’t limit the maximum speed. Rather, they operate like cruise control to prevent the car from traveling faster than the posted speed limit.

ISA systems allow drivers to travel faster than the speed limit for a temporary period. For instance, while a driver is passing another vehicle or attempting to avoid being rear-ended. Further, ISA’s don’t apply the brakes when a driver exceeds the speed limit, rather they limit engine power.

ISA’s in the USA

While it is possible that in the United States, regulators will require ISA’s, it’s not likely to happen anytime soon. For now, parents can rely on a series of apps to monitor their teen’s speed on the road.

Safe Driver is a popular app that allows parents to see how fast their teen is driving. When the teen exceeds the set limits, it sends an alert to mom or dad’s phone. Life360 is another popular app. It shows the teen’s speed and location in real time. While these apps won’t stop a teen from speeding, they can be used to monitor and later correct the teen’s driving behaviors.

Contact Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C. at (303) 447-1144 for more information about speed-related accidents. It’s our pleasure to help you keep your teenager safe on the road.