California Introduces Bill Requiring Vehicles to Have Speed Limiter Technology
California Sen. Scott Wiener has introduced a new bill, known as SB 961, which would require certain vehicles sold or manufactured in the state to be equipped with speed limiter technology. The bill is part of the SAFER California Streets legislation package, which aims to reduce traffic deaths and injuries statewide.
According to the bill’s text, every passenger vehicle, motortruck, and bus manufactured or sold in California would be required to have speed limiter technology starting from the 2027 model year. This technology would electronically limit the speed of the vehicle to prevent drivers from exceeding the speed limit by more than 10 miles per hour.
Aim to Reduce Traffic Fatalities and Injuries Statewide
The new bill is part of a comprehensive effort to reduce traffic fatalities and injuries in California. A June report from the National Transportation Research Group, TRIP, revealed that traffic fatalities in California had increased by 22% from 2019 through 2022, compared to 19% for the entire United States. Additionally, a study from the California Office of Traffic Safety found that one-third of all traffic fatalities in the state from 2017 to 2021 were related to speeding.
Support for Speed Limiting Technology from International and National Authorities
Sen. Scott Wiener states that the implementation of speed-limiting technology aligns with international trends and recommendations. The European Union already mandates this technology, while the National Transportation Safety Board has recommended its adoption nationally.
Exemptions and Temporary Overrides Included in the Bill
Not all vehicles would be subject to this new requirement. Authorized emergency vehicles would be exempt from the rule. Additionally, non-emergency vehicles could be exempt if the Commissioner of the California Highway Patrol allows the technology to be disabled based on specific criteria. The bill also includes provisions for drivers to temporarily override the speed limiter technology.
Focus on Better Protection for Vulnerable Road Users
SB 961 not only addresses speed limiting technology but also includes a provision requiring large trucks in California to have side guards. These side guards are intended to prevent cars and bicycles from being pulled under the truck during a crash. The bill is part of the SAFER California Streets legislative package, which also aims to improve state-owned roads to better protect residents who rely on public transportation.
Past Challenges in Enacting Similar Measures in California
It is worth noting that a similar measure to require speed limiter technology was approved by the legislature in 2019 but was subsequently vetoed by Governor Gavin Newsom. Whether SB 961 will face similar challenges remains to be seen. Nonetheless, the introduction of this new bill demonstrates California’s continued commitment to promoting road safety and reducing traffic fatalities and injuries.
Analyst comment
Positive news. The introduction of the bill reflects California’s commitment to promoting road safety and reducing traffic fatalities. The market for speed limiter technology is likely to grow as vehicles in California will be required to be equipped with this technology starting from the 2027 model year. Manufacturers and suppliers of speed limiter technology may see increased demand.
