To end drunk driving State launches alcohol detection technology initiative

The Washington Traffic Safety Commission launched the Driven to Protect initiative to address drunk driving through advanced alcohol detection technology. This initiative marks Washington as the fourth state to join a national effort to develop the Driver Alcohol Detection System for Safety (DADSS), which passively identifies drivers with illegal blood alcohol levels. Alarmingly, 27% of roadway fatalities in Washington in 2023 involved alcohol-impaired drivers. The DADSS technology will be tested in three fleet vehicles to assess its performance under various conditions. Shelly Baldwin, WTSC director, stated that the initiative aims to save thousands of lives by preventing impaired driving before it occurs.

The technology distinguishes between drivers and passengers, providing accurate results without requiring a breath sample. As part of the initiative, WTSC will also engage in outreach to educate residents about the technology's benefits. This comprehensive approach seeks to foster a culture of safety on Washington's roads.