CAMERAS that monitor drivers for fatigue and distraction are set to become mandatory in all new cars across the EU from July.
The new Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) system will use sensors and cameras to track eye and body movement, setting off alerts if signs of distraction are detected – including checking one’s phone or smoking.
First announced in 2024 as part of the EU General Safety Regulation, the move comes amid a broader push to sharply reduce road deaths and injuries by 2050 – an EU-wide plan known as ‘Vision Zero.’
ADDW systems have already been compulsory since July 2024 for all new car models. From this July, however, the rule will extend to all newly registered vehicles, meaning every new car sold in EU dealerships must be equipped with the technology.
Drivers purchasing second-hand vehicles after the deadline – or keeping their old cars – will not need to retrofit the system.
Although the legislation does not mandate camera-based systems specifically, several manufacturers have already begun selling camera-equipped solutions which they say are designed to meet the new standards.
Under the rules, the system activates once a vehicle reaches speeds of at least 20 km/h.
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If a driver’s eye or body movement suggests they may be distracted, the system will set off visual, acoustic, or haptic warnings such as a seat or steering wheel vibration.
The legislation stresses that these systems must not store any data that could identify the driver, including biometric information.
In Spain, the national traffic authority (DGT) has welcomed the move, citing reports that distractions were a factor in around 30% of fatal crashes and 18% of all accidents in 2024.
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