EU: Speed limiters to be implemented from 2022
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Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA) technology must be fitted to all new cars sold in Europe from July under new European Union legislation, which is set to also apply to the UK despite Brexit. It is hoped the new technology will reduce speeding and as a result dramatically cut down on accidents, although not everyone is confident.
Tim Short, Partner at Plexus Law, has warned drivers that the technology will not always work for motorists, especially when other factors are in play.
The technology works using GPS data and traffic cameras to determine the speed limits of each road, and will automatically restrict vehicles from breaking the limit.
It is believed that drivers will be able to override the ISA technology, with motoring experts warning of safety risks if drivers cannot speed up to avoid hazards or when overtaking.
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Mr Short said: “In circumstances where drivers rely upon the ISA system to keep their vehicles at, or under the speed limit, there is a clear danger that they will inadvertently exceed speed limits if the technology fails.
“Drivers will then be at risk of penalties for exceeding the speed limit.
“Blaming unreliable technology will not provide a defence to a speeding charge.
“Another potential issue is that the ISA systems may encourage drivers to drive ‘on the limit’.
“Speed limits do not indicate a safe speed for all conditions, rather, they indicate the maximum permitted speed whatever the conditions.
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“The ISA system will not respond to weather or traffic conditions, when driving on the limit might be dangerous.”
Speed limiters are already fitted on many cars and can be overridden by pressing hard on the accelerator.
The European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) had called for the system to cut engine power once the legal speed limit had been reached, saying this could reduce road deaths by 20 percent.
This proposal was eventually ditched, with the EU looking for a more simple system which would alert drivers, either visually or audibly.
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