Driving law changes to see EU speed limiters rolled out within weeks will alter 'how we drive on roads'

Intelligent Speed Assistance technology can automatically slow down a vehicle if a driver exceeds the speed limit on roads under European Union rules.

The changes issued by the European Commission stated that it is an “effective safety measure” because even a slightly lower speed has a “significant beneficial effect” on accident avoidance or mitigation of the accident outcome.

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Experts from Motor Match explained that the new rules will change “how we drive on roads”.

The ISA systems will become standard for all new vehicles manufactured in the EU, forcing drivers to stick to speed limits automatically.

ISA technology would limit drivers to the national speed limit of 70mph, with experts stating that it's important to note that “while speed limiters are already present in many cars, the upcoming regulations tighten control”.

The expert added: "The new ISA systems not only prevent speeding fines and contribute to fuel savings but also significantly reduce the risk of penalties.”

The minimum penalty for speeding currently includes a £100 fine and three penalty points on a driving licence.

But if taken to court, drivers could face a maximum of £1,000 fine or £2,500 if they were driving on a motorway.

In more severe cases of speeding, motorists could find themselves disqualified from driving or have their licence suspended.

With ISA technology, the likelihood of accumulating penalty points, and the risk of being disqualified from driving for gathering 12 or more points within three years, is “greatly reduced,” Motor Match explained.

Currently, speed limiters are not mandatory on UK vehicles, but are in place across London buses.

The Department for Transport had previously detailed that it has commissioned research to look at the benefits and implications of these technologies across the UK and is expected to provide updates in due course.

The DfT remains a member of the European New Car Assessment Programme which already incentivises many of the technologies flagged in the legislation.

Last year, police records showed that exceeding the speed limit was a contributory factor in 20 per cent of deaths on the road.

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In 2022, 5,171 accidents were caused by drivers and riders exceeding the speed limit showing a 5.1 per cent increase year on year.