In the United States alone, approximately 14,000 people die each year in traffic accidents in which alcohol consumption plays a role. By the way, this is actually the corrected version, because during Covid this number was much higher.

In any case, the problem is real, and so far no definitive solution has been found to eliminate it – neither in the United States nor anywhere else.


Early in 2021, the US Congress called on the NHTSA to develop a system by which manufacturers could be required to install an immobilizer sensor in cars. This process is now heading towards the finish line: it already appears so This law may come into effect in November this yearwhich will then be introduced and applied with a grace period of three years.

By the way, “probe” is just a generic and imprecise name for the technology used: sensors, cameras or other touch sensors could possibly determine whether a person is qualified to drive.

However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns that such technology must operate 100% safely, otherwise intoxicated people could walk off the road — or, conversely, it could deprive sober and fit drivers of… Driving, who (knowing North American social norms) can lead to lawsuits that could put thousands on the necks of car manufacturers or authorities.