Virginia Installs GPS Speed Limiters for ‘Super Speeders’
Virginia mandates GPS speed limiters for reckless drivers, raising privacy and technical concerns.
2 min read
Virginia has introduced a new initiative to combat reckless driving by requiring drivers convicted of speeding over 100 mph to install GPS-powered speed limiters. The program, known as Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA), went into effect in July and has sparked debate over due-process concerns and potential misuse of the technology.
GPS Technology and Data Collection
The ISA program mandates that drivers convicted of speeding over 100 mph install a GPS-monitored speed-limiter. The technology collects precise GPS locations, direction of travel, and vehicle speed to enforce speed limits. The data is managed by the Virginia state government, according to the advocacy group Families For Safer Streets. While the law does not explicitly restrict the use of ISA data, a bill was proposed in October to establish guardrails on its use.
Similar Laws and Privacy Concerns
Other states, including Maryland, have enacted similar ‘Super Speeder’ laws. Maryland’s law is set to be fully implemented by 2027. Democratic state Sen. Jeff Waldstreicher acknowledged the privacy concerns, noting that the devices are only installed in vehicles of super speeders. About 100 speed limiters have been installed in Virginia since the program began, with drivers required to pay $100 for installation and $180 monthly fees.
Technical Issues and Safety Concerns
Despite the program’s goals, several technical issues have emerged. One driver reported his car was limited to 35 mph while on a highway, forcing him to pull over. These issues are attributed to ‘GPS drift,’ where the system mistakenly identifies the driver’s location as a nearby road with a different speed limit. Advocates like Michael Travars of LifeSafer, one of the ISA technology makers, argue that slowing down dangerous drivers can save lives.
Broader Implications and Surveillance Concerns
Virginia is not the only state implementing ISA-like programs. Washington, D.C., New York, and Washington State have also enacted similar measures. Privacy concerns mirror those raised about Flock Safety, a surveillance company that employs license plate readers. Flock’s CEO recently claimed that opposition to the company is driven by Russian bots, though without evidence.
Source: Daily Caller
