Car Insurance
Volvo devises new drink drive device
Thu, 08 Sep 2005
Car maker Volvo has launched a new device that aims to reduce the number of motorists who drive whilst under the influence of alcohol.
The in-car breathalyser means that a vehicle will not start unless the driver successfully records a result below the legal limit, potentially reducing car insurance premiums. However, Volvo is yet to confirm whether they plan to install the device in any of its new vehicles and is waiting for initial consumer response to the anti-drink driving feature.
The device is also designed to ensure that drivers are wearing their seat belt before taking to the road by refusing to start unless belts are correctly fastened.
"According to the European Commission, about 10,000 people a year die in alcohol-related road accidents in Europe," said Ingrid Skogsmo, the head of Volvo's safety centre in Sweden.
"In addition, many accidents also result in serious injuries because drivers or passengers fail to wear their seatbelts," she added.
However, some road safety groups have already expressed concern over the device as it could lead to motorists driving whilst still under the influence, simply because the system has given them a green light.
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