Two thirds of drivers support breathalysers in all new vehicles to tackle drink-driving
- Perry Richardson
- Aug 29
- 2 min read
Almost two thirds of UK motorists back government proposals to introduce mandatory in-car breathalysers in all new vehicles, a new survey has found.
The data, gathered by insurance comparison site Quotezone.co.uk, comes as the Government continues to examine options to address drink-driving and high-risk behaviours on UK roads.
According to the study, 62% of respondents believe in-car breathalysers would help reduce drink-related incidents. The proposed system would require drivers to provide a breath sample before the vehicle engine starts.
The Department for Transport reported 260 deaths due to drink-driving in 2023, reflecting a 7% rise in fatalities when compared with 2013 figures. The increase has reignited interest in vehicle-integrated safety technology as part of a long-term road safety strategy.
Of the 1,000 drivers surveyed, 49% said they strongly support the introduction of built-in breathalysers in new vehicles, while a further 29% said they somewhat support the idea.
The public also showed broad backing for black box technology. 60% said they would support black boxes being installed in all new cars to monitor driving habits such as speed and sudden braking.
There was even stronger support for installing black boxes in vehicles driven by newly qualified motorists. 74% of respondents agreed this should become standard for new drivers, citing concerns about risk levels among younger age groups.
Department for Transport figures show that one in five serious collisions involve a young driver. Male drivers under 25 remain statistically more likely to be killed or seriously injured than those aged 25 or older.
Despite years of public awareness campaigns, fatalities from dangerous driving remain at a high level. Road safety advocates argue that advances in in-car technology could now play a more direct role in improving behaviour behind the wheel.
As policymakers assess future legislation, findings like these will likely play a role in shaping vehicle manufacturing requirements in the years ahead.
Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone, said: “Given all we know about how devastating reckless driving can be, it's worrying to see that the figures have actually increased over the last 10 years.
“With the government planning to make breathalysers and black boxes mandatory in new cars, we wanted to understand how drivers feel about these safety measures.
“While these devices are still relatively new to a lot of motorists, the survey reveals strong support across the UK and it’s clear that drivers recognise the potential of breathalysers and black boxes to encourage safer habits behind the wheel.
“Of course, introducing these features raises questions around privacy and data use, which will need to be carefully addressed to ensure public confidence, but it is encouraging to see public attitude towards drink-driving, with two thirds of drivers backing measures that could save lives and improve road safety.
“Implementing these devices could also allow insurers to set more accurate pricing for motorists that continuously drive safely. Fitting the likes of a black box could not only improve safety but also build greater trust between drivers and insurers and put pounds back in the pockets of those who drive carefully and take road safety seriously.”
