Posted on 08/07/2007 4:59:35 PM PDT by rellimpank
"Pre-emptive war" got us into a real mess in Iraq. So maybe we ought to think twice before adopting similar measures when it comes to traffic law. Specifically, when it comes to an idea floated by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to require that all new cars be fitted with an ignition interlock that can detect alcohol in the driver's system -- and shut the car down if it does.
Several large automakers (including GM, Ford, Toyota and Honda) also support the idea -- and are working on ways to get these things into new cars, maybe within the next two or three years, if not sooner.
Sounds OK in principle -- sort of like the idea of liberating Iraq. The devil's in the details, though.
(Excerpt) Read more at spectator.org ...
So we would have to prove we aren’t drunk before we can start the car?
Politicians need these devices, so they assume that the little people do.
Invariably, a successful group, drunk (pun intended) with money & power, will strive ever so desperately to stay relevant. They will grasp at straws so absurd, yet somehow rationalize it as "even saving one life is worth it."
I generally despise many activists because they're the political equivalent of herpes.
So you MADDies might as well change your name to NANNies (Never A Normal Notion?). I really loathe you and hope that the underground market defeats your stupid idea.
There are several designs and at least six have already been patented. Most are based on the Breathalyzer that police use, which makes it very expensive.
The more inexpensive versions measure blood-alcohol-content (BAC) through the thin skin on the inside of the elbow or wrist. These will keep the purchase price of the car reasonable.
Alcohol is a factor in 40% of our highway fatalities. As long as it doesn’t prevent people who are under the legal limit from operating a motor vehicle, I don’t think it’s a bad idea.
Seatbelts and airbags have set the precedent.
Don't different states have different legal limits? How would this thing work if you drive accross state lines? Will it suddently shut the car down if you drive into a state with stricter laws than the one you came from?
It has been understood for quite a while that MADD’s overall agenda is total Prohibition of alcohol. This is more proof of that.
This can only work if the automakers are indemnified against lawsuits. The tabloids are going to have field days reporting on the drunk people dragged out of their disabled cars and mugged/raped/murdered because of the totalitarian MADD regime.
This won’t last as long as “full time running lights” if it even becomes law.
That really worked out so well in the '20's, dinnit?
Feh! Politicians (the ruling class) will be the first to have their vehicles retro-unfitted if these are installed.
If it ain't illegal, I could make a nice living by offering such a service if these become standard equipment.
The nationwide standard is 0.08% BAC. In my opinion, if these devices allow someone with 0.079% BAC to drive, they are acceptable. The ones that measure BAC through the skin would only add about $100 to the price of a new car. This is pretty cheap as insurance policies go.
Aside from the principle of the thing, these devices would add $1000 to the cost of every new car in America, further making driving into a luxury of the rich.
That's a ridiculous position to take. I have a problem with motorcycle helmet laws and seat belt laws. Your life is your own, and if you choose to endanger it by driving without a seat belt or riding without a helmet, the Nanny State shouldn't be able to tell you "No."
But when a drunk driver gets behind the wheel, he doesn't just endanger himself. He endangers everybody on the road.
All you want to do is move the car into the garage before that hail storm hits, but you've been sitting in your home having a few beers.... It won't start and there's no one around to start it for you?
Do we get to sue MADD for the hail damage?
While I'm all for getting trashed drivers off the road, I don't really see .08 as being drunk. Some might not be able to handle it, most probably can.
I also see a potential [black/gray]market in after market engine control chips to bypass said device. Or a canned air market to blow into the device.
The road to hell is paved with good intentions.
Yea, if you don't break the law why be afraid to let any law enforcement
agency search your house also? Anytime they want, 24-7.
Why the hell not.
Incredible..
Gee, I guess these devices should be made standard on motorcycles, bicycles, wheel chairs, horses, etc., right?
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