Revving Up Road Safety
New EU Regulations Mandate Advanced Safety Systems for Vehicles in Ireland
Thanks to the implementation of a new EU regulation, all newly manufactured vehicles sold in Ireland will be equipped with advanced safety systems starting today (7th July 2024).
This mandate, aimed at significantly reducing road fatalities and serious injuries, requires the inclusion of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in new cars, vans, buses, and trucks.
The regulation, known as the Second General Safety Regulation (GSR2), is designed to deploy cutting-edge safety technologies to safeguard not just the vehicle's occupants but also pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users.
Sam Waide, CEO of the Road Safety Authority (RSA), strongly supported the move. “ADAS employs sensors and other electronic systems to assist drivers in various driving tasks, helping to prevent collisions. It holds significant potential to improve road safety in Ireland," Waide noted.
The Road Safety Systems
Under this regulation, a broad array of technologies will be rolled out to enhance road safety. Key features include:
- Drowsiness Detection
- Blind Spot Information Systems
- Advanced Emergency Braking
- Facilitation for Alcohol Interlock Installation
- Intelligent Speed Assistance
One standout feature is the Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) system, which alerts drivers when they exceed speed limits. By using a front-facing camera to read speed limit signs, and combining this data with GPS mapping, ISA can issue audible or vibrating alerts to ensure drivers stay within legal speed limits.
Another critical technology is Advanced Emergency Braking, which uses sensors to monitor the road ahead and automatically applies the brakes if a collision appears imminent and the driver fails to react. Additionally, the regulation facilitates the installation of alcohol interlock devices, which require drivers to pass a breath alcohol content test before the vehicle's engine can start.
The Research
Research supports the life-saving potential of these technologies.
A study by the University of Limerick (UL) in November 2022 found that full deployment of ADAS could reduce collision frequency in the UK by 23.8%, equating to an annual reduction of 18,925 incidents.
Notably, advanced emergency braking was identified as the most impactful, reducing collisions at intersections by 28%, rear-end collisions by 27.7%, and pedestrian-related collisions by 28.4%. The findings suggest that similar benefits could be realized in Ireland.
To ensure consumers and the motor industry are well-informed about these new requirements, the RSA, in collaboration with the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign. This initiative spans press, digital displays, and social media platforms.
In summary, introducing these cutting-edge safety systems marks a significant step forward in enhancing road safety in Ireland. As we gear up for safer roads, drivers and pedestrians can look forward to a considerable reduction in accidents, paving the way for a safer driving experience.