Speed Governors Now Required for Drivers with Repeat Violations in D.C. —Here’s How They Work

Washington, D.C., has passed the DC STEER (Strengthening Traffic Enforcement, Education, and Responsibility) Act to combat reckless driving. This act introduces innovative measures to hold dangerous drivers accountable. 

The legislation, which the D.C. Council unanimously passed, aims to make the streets safer for everyone.

Here is why D.C.’s cutting-edge approach, including speed governor devices and a points-based system, is set to transform how we think about road safety.

Speed Governors: A High-Tech Solution

One of the most notable aspects of the DC STEER Act (ref) is the introduction of speed governor devices. These high-tech gadgets, which will be installed on the cars of drivers convicted of criminal reckless driving, automatically limit a vehicle’s speed. 

The pilot program requires offenders to bear the cost of installation, while low-income drivers will have the devices installed at the city’s expense.

Speed governors are a proactive approach to preventing dangerous driving behavior. By physically restricting a vehicle’s ability to exceed the speed limit, the devices constantly remind drivers to prioritize safety. 

This innovative solution has the potential to significantly reduce the number of speed-related accidents and fatalities on D.C.’s roads.

Point System: Holding Drivers Accountable

In addition to speed governors, the DC STEER Act establishes a comprehensive point system linked to drivers’ vehicles and licenses. (ref) This system allows the District to closely monitor and take action against those who repeatedly violate traffic laws.

Points will be assigned based on the severity of the offense:

• Speeding 11-15 mph over the limit: 2 points
• Speeding 16-19 mph over the limit: 3 points
• Speeding 20 mph or more over the limit: 5 points
• Reckless driving: 5 points
• Aggravated Reckless Driving: 10 points 

Drivers who accumulate specific points within a six-month window will face immediate consequences, such as having their vehicles booted or towed. This swift enforcement conveys that reckless driving will not be tolerated in the District.

Empowering the Attorney General

The DC STEER Act also grants the Attorney General the authority to sue dangerous drivers, regardless of where they reside. (ref) This provision closes loopholes that previously allowed some offenders to evade accountability. 

By holding drunken drivers and those with multiple dangerous driving violations responsible for their actions, the legislation ensures that no one is above the law.

Furthermore, the Attorney General’s office will receive funding to hire dedicated attorneys focusing solely on reckless driving cases. 

This specialized team will work tirelessly to prosecute dangerous drivers and make the streets safer for all District residents and visitors.

Promoting Safe Driving Education

The DC STEER Act requires the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to create a safe driving class to promote safe driving habits. 

By completing this class, drivers can waive up to $500 in annual fines. This incentive encourages individuals to take responsibility for their actions behind the wheel and learn valuable skills to prevent future violations.

The safe driving class benefits individual drivers and contributes to a broader safety culture on D.C.’s roads. 

By educating motorists about the importance of responsible driving, the District is investing in the long-term well-being of its community.