Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade has proposed large-scale installment of ignition interlock devices (IIDs) to identify alcohol-intoxicated drivers.
IIDs are breathalyzer-type devices that prevent a vehicle from starting if the driver consumed more than the alcohol limit. Russian officials may prompt automakers to fit cars with such devices, Kommersant business daily reported. The proposal was previously approved by the State Inspection for Road Traffic Safety.
The concept of mass introduction of anti-drunk-driving interlock devices will be developed by October 1. By December 31 this year, the Government will consider measures to implement fitting IIDs to car production models. Devices should not stop a running engine, with certain corresponding standards to be developed soon.
The commercial use of in-car breathalyzers first began in Sweden in the late 1990s. Today, IIDs are commonly used worldwide to track repeat drunk drivers. In Australia, such offenders must install devices at their own expense.
In Russia, the idea has been considered for a few years; the cost of alcolocks may total between RUR 25K-120K ($340-1,600) per year.