Virginia's new anti-speeding device aims to curb dangerous driving habits

This news article was originally published by Virginia's 13 News Now (WVEC).

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Speeding remains one of the leading causes of crashes across Virginia, and state leaders are trying a new approach to address the problem. 

Rather than relying solely on license suspensions or vehicle impoundments, some repeat speeding offenders may now be required to install technology that physically prevents them from exceeding the speed limit.

Virginia recently became the first state in the nation to implement a "Super Speeder" law that allows judges to order certain repeat and reckless speeders to install an Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) device in their vehicles.

How the Technology Works

LifeSafer, one of the companies manufacturing the devices, recently demonstrated the technology to 13News Now. The system is designed to help habitual speeders change their driving behavior by automatically preventing vehicles from exceeding posted speed limits.

According to LifeSafer President Michael Travars, traditional penalties have not been effective in changing driver behavior.

"Traditionally, impounding the car, suspending the license, and we have reams of data that says that doesn't work," Travars said.

The ISA device continuously monitors the posted speed limit and intervenes when a driver attempts to exceed it. During a demonstration, 13News Now tested the technology firsthand. When the driver attempted to speed, the system smoothly reduced the vehicle's speed back to the legal limit.

Travars said most drivers will barely notice the technology during normal operation.

"ISA is the most boring device in the world. It just works. It doesn't feel like anything. If you're below the speed limit, if you're driving normally, you won't even notice an ISA is in your car," he said.

Always Updated, but Not Constantly Tracking

The system is designed to stay current with changing speed limits, allowing it to recognize the appropriate speed restriction wherever the vehicle is traveling.

Some critics have expressed concerns that the devices could be used to constantly monitor drivers. Travars pushed back on that perception, saying the technology's sole purpose is speed prevention, not driver surveillance.

"We're going to make the road safer for everyone. What we're doing is not just protecting that one driver from making a mistake, from hitting a tree, but we're also protecting all of the other people on the roads," Travers said.

More Than Just for Repeat Offenders

While the new Virginia law targets repeat and reckless speeders, LifeSafer says the technology has broader applications. The company believes ISA devices could also be useful for parents looking to promote safer driving habits among teenage drivers.

Supporters of the technology argue that preventing dangerous speeding before it happens could reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities, creating safer roads for all Virginia motorists.