What Changes Are Coming to Car Safety Standards?
If you’re shopping for a new car in the next few years, you’ll notice some big changes in what’s considered “safe.” The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has announced that, starting in 2027, vehicles will need to include anti-speeding technology to qualify for their coveted Top Safety Pick+ award. By 2030, that list will expand to require built-in systems that can detect if a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Automakers are watching closely, because these awards matter—a lot. They influence buyer decisions, insurance rates, and even resale values.
Why Are Anti-Speeding Features Becoming Essential?
Speeding is a leading factor in fatal crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding contributed to nearly 29% of all traffic fatalities in the United States in 2022. That’s over 12,000 lives lost in one year alone. The IIHS wants to tackle this head-on by requiring new cars to have technology that actively prevents or discourages drivers from exceeding speed limits.
What does that look like in practice? Think intelligent speed assistance (ISA) systems that use GPS and cameras to read speed limit signs and gently nudge you back in line if you’re going too fast. Some European countries already require these systems in new vehicles, and early data suggests they can reduce speeding incidents by up to 30%. While some drivers worry about losing control or flexibility, the reality is these systems are designed to be more of a safety net than a strict nanny.
How Will DUI Detection Work in Future Cars?
The push for DUI detection technology is even more ambitious. By 2030, IIHS wants Top Safety Pick+ vehicles to come equipped with systems that can sense if a driver is impaired—before they even put the car in gear. This isn’t just about breathalyzers. We’re talking about passive sensors that can detect alcohol in the air, cameras that monitor driver behavior, and even steering wheel sensors that pick up on erratic movements.
Why the urgency? Drunk driving remains a stubborn problem. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about 32 people die every day in the U.S. due to alcohol-impaired driving. Automakers and safety advocates hope that by making these systems standard, they can dramatically cut those numbers. Volvo, for example, has already begun experimenting with in-car cameras and sensors to monitor driver alertness, and several startups are racing to develop non-invasive alcohol detection tech.
Will These Features Make Cars More Expensive?
It’s a fair question. Adding new technology usually bumps up the sticker price. However, safety features often pay for themselves over time—through lower insurance premiums, fewer accidents, and higher resale values. According to a 2023 study by the Highway Loss Data Institute, vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) saw a 27% reduction in insurance claims related to bodily injury. That’s real money back in your pocket.
Plus, as these technologies become more common, economies of scale will kick in. Remember when backup cameras were a luxury add-on? Now they’re standard, and the cost has dropped dramatically. The same trend is likely for anti-speeding and DUI detection tech.
How Will These Changes Affect Your Next Car Purchase?
If you’re planning to buy a new car in the next five years, it’s worth paying attention to which models are keeping up with these safety trends. Not only will Top Safety Pick+ winners have the latest features, but they’ll also be more attractive to future buyers and insurers. Some automakers may even roll out these technologies ahead of the deadlines to get a jump on the competition.
It’s also a good idea to ask your dealer about upcoming safety updates or over-the-air software upgrades. Many manufacturers now offer the ability to add new features remotely, so your car could get smarter and safer without ever visiting a shop.
What’s the Real-World Impact for Drivers and Families?
For families, these changes mean more peace of mind. Imagine a world where your teenager’s first car won’t let them speed on the highway or drive if they’ve had a drink. Or where late-night drivers are gently reminded to stay alert. While no technology is foolproof, these systems add another layer of protection that could save thousands of lives each year.
There’s also a ripple effect. As more cars on the road adopt these features, the roads become safer for everyone—pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers included. Cities and states may even start offering incentives or tax breaks for vehicles that meet the new IIHS standards.
The Big Takeaway for Car Buyers
The big takeaway? Safer driving isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether you’re eyeing a new car or just curious about what’s next, these upcoming safety features are set to make a real impact—one smart system at a time.
