California one step closer to mandatory speeding alerts

California Governor Gavin Newsom has received a new bill. The bill, called SB 961, requires automakers to install speeding alerts on new cars starting in 2030. Importantly, the bill only applies to new cars built and sold in the state. Older cars will not be required to have the same technology.

The system works by comparing GPS data, including local speed limits, to the car’s current speed. If the driver exceeds the speed limit by more than 10 mph, the car will sound at least one audible and visual alert. We’ve previously detailed how the technology works and how it’s implemented. What’s new now is that the bill does not require the car to physically restrict the driver’s ability to speed.

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“With more than 1,000 people killed each year in the state due to speeding, this technology will absolutely help reduce traffic violence caused by speeding, just as seat belts help save the lives of drivers and passengers,” Damian Kevitt, executive director of Streets for Everyone, told the Los Angeles Times. Notably, SAFE is a nonprofit co-sponsor of the bill.

Of course, not everyone supports the bill. Republican Senator Roger Nile told CBS News, “Government intervention is not the solution to the state’s traffic safety crisis. We should be focusing on increasing the number of police officers in communities and punishing drivers who break the law.” He’s not the only one who feels this way.

“When I’m in the car with my kids and there’s already something screaming at me, the last thing I want is my car beeping at me,” said Rep. Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin). Newsom has until Sept. 30 to sign the bill. This technology, which is already in use on roads, reduces speeds by an average of 1.4 mph, according to a British study. Does that sound like a worthwhile speed reduction? Let us know in the comments below!

Image source: CBS News