New law: Speed limiting devices may soon be required in vehicles in Illinois.

[Q: Should Illinois be able to require speed limits in vehicle ?]

 A new proposal in Springfield would require certain Illinois drivers to install speed-limiting technology in their vehicles, creating a statewide program aimed at reducing high-speed crashes and traffic fatalities.

House Bill 4948 would establish the Intelligent Speed Assistance Program, which would mandate that some offenders install a device that automatically limits the vehicle’s top speed, based on the posted speed limit where it is being driven.

The new legislation proposed by Democrats would require some Illinois drivers to install devices that would limit speed in their vehicles. The purpose is to reduce high-speed crashes and traffic fatalities.

State Rep. Martha Deuter’s (D) House Bill 4948 would establish the Intelligent Speed Assistance Program, which would mandate that some traffic offenders install a device that automatically limits the vehicle’s top speed, based on the posted speed limit where it is being driven.

The law would take affect on January 1, 2027 

Individuals required to install this device would come as a result of a court order.

A driver ordered by a judge to participate in the program would be required to install a certified intelligent speed assistance system on every vehicle they own, and they would also be prohibited from operating a vehicle that doesn’t have the device installed.

Courts would be allowed to order enrollment for reckless driving convictions, and would make it mandatory for anyone found guilty of driving more than 100 miles per hour on Illinois roads.

If a driver fails to follow the rules of the program, the Illinois Secretary of State would be given the authority to suspend or revoke their driver’s license.

The measure tasks the state’s Zero Traffic Fatalities Task Force with overseeing the program. The task force would be responsible for approving and certifying speed‑assistance devices, setting safety and tamper‑prevention standards, publishing a list of approved manufacturers, and creating rules for installation, data reporting, and compliance.

HB4948 must still move through committee hearings and floor votes in both chambers of the General Assembly.

Speed limiting devices are systems designed to prevent vehicles from exceeding predetermined speed thresholds, enhancing road safety and compliance with traffic regulations.

Overview of Speed Limiting Devices

Speed limiting devices (SLDs) are crucial components in modern vehicle safety systems. They can be mechanical, electronic, or GPS-based, each serving the purpose of controlling vehicle speed to prevent accidents and improve road safety.

Types of Speed Limiting Devices

1. Mechanical Speed Limiters:

• These are traditional devices that use physical components like springs and weights to restrict engine power when a vehicle reaches a set speed. They are often found in older vehicles and heavy machinery due to their simplicity and reliability in harsh conditions. However, they lack the precision of modern systems and may require periodic adjustments. 1

2. Electronic Speed Limiters:

• These systems connect directly to a vehicle’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and monitor speed through sensors. When the vehicle approaches the preset speed limit, the system reduces engine power or fuel injection, preventing further acceleration. Electronic limiters are programmable, allowing fleet managers to set different limits for various driving conditions. 1

3. GPS-Based Speed Limiters:

• Utilizing GPS technology, these devices can adjust speed limits based on location, such as school zones or construction areas. They create virtual boundaries and automatically enforce reduced speed limits when vehicles enter these zones. This technology is particularly beneficial for commercial fleets operating in urban environments. 1

Benefits of Speed Limiting Devices

• Enhanced Safety: By preventing excessive speeds, these devices significantly reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall road safety.
• Regulatory Compliance: Many countries mandate the use of speed limiters in commercial vehicles, ensuring adherence to traffic laws and regulations.
• Fuel Efficiency: Maintaining optimal speeds can lead to better fuel consumption, reducing operational costs for fleet operators.

Regulatory Context

In many regions, including India, the installation of speed limiting devices is mandated for certain categories of vehicles. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has established guidelines for the fitment of these devices to ensure compliance and enhance road safety.

Analysis: Many questions regarding this Democrat proposed legislation need to be answered.