New York City Considers Mandatory Accelerator Restrictors for Habitual Speeders
New York City is contemplating a new measure to tackle habitual speeders, specifically focusing on those who exceed the speed limit on surface streets and near schools. The proposal involves mandating accelerator restrictors for repeat offenders, which could force them to slow down involuntarily.
Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA)
The technology behind these restrictors is part of a pilot program called Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA). Some ISA systems use GPS data and maps to determine the appropriate speed based on a vehicle’s location. Many modern vehicles already have this technology installed, while others would require modifications to add it.
Existing Laws and Proposals
New York City would join Virginia, Georgia, and Washington, D.C., in implementing such laws if approved. The New York City Council discussed the proposal on Monday, with Transportation Alternatives leading the charge. The group has identified 10 drivers they consider "super speeders," including one who accumulated 563 speeding tickets last year.
Counterarguments
The idea has sparked a debate, as some argue that license suspensions are ineffective. Research suggests that many people with suspended licenses still drive, potentially leading to accidents and fatalities due to carelessness behind the wheel.