Steer Safe

What is the cost of the ISA device?

The program includes three standard fees:

Installation: Approximately $150 one-time fee
Monthly: Approximately $4 per day
Removal: Approximately $100 one-time fee

Is there financial assistance available for low-income participants? What if someone cannot afford the program costs?

Participants applying for affordability status for the purpose of the ISA program should be deemed to qualify for such status by showing proof of their enrollment in any public assistance programs, not limited to but, including the following: Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP). People who meet the criteria should qualify for reduced installation and monthly lease costs.

How is the device installed? Does it connect through the OBD port or accelerator?

The system connects through a vehicle's OBD-II port, with a relay that wires directly to the accelerator pedal. This provides seamless integration without permanent vehicle modification.

Is the ISA device compatible with all vehicle types, including hybrids, electric vehicles, and push-to-start ignition systems?

Yes, the device is compatible with most vehicles, including these.

Does the device enforce speed limits and adjust for different roads?

Yes, it uses GPS to detect and enforce posted speed limits, with programmable allowances for different road types. The accelerator becomes unresponsive when reaching the set limit, while still permitting safe merging and passing. Drivers receive real-time speed alerts, and the GPS database is regularly updated for accuracy.

What if I need to speed up for safety, like merging onto a highway or passing a slow vehicle?

There is a situational speed assist feature that allows the driver to speed up for a specified period of time (We recommend one minute). The use of the situational speed assist feature should be limited to no more than once per drive cycle.

When my car slows down, is it creating a driving hazard?

No, the device does not cause the vehicle to brake. The driver is responsible for slowing down to the lower speed limit, much like any normal driving experience when transitioning from a higher speed to a lower speed road.

Can the device remotely shut down my car?

No. However, if the device has been tampered with, it can be placed into recall mode in which case the person will need to report to a service center to have it properly reinstalled. If they fail to do so within a certain timeframe, the car will lockout until the inspection is done (as is the case with ignition interlocks).

Does this system require regular maintenance checks like an ignition interlock?

Unlike the ignition interlock, ISA does not need regular calibration, so a regular service center visit is not necessary.

How is my data used? Will it be shared with insurance companies, and what privacy protections are in place?

The speed limiting technology generates private data that is only shared with the state monitoring authority. The data is not shared with other people or companies and will not be reported to insurance companies.

Can the device be easily removed or tampered with?

While physically removable, any disconnection is recorded as a tamper event. Vehicles can also be equipped with tamper-evident seals for added security.

What happens if another driver uses my car and bypasses or tampers with the ISA device?

The registered device users remains legally responsible for all vehicle operation, regardless of who is driving. Any tampering will trigger system alerts.

What are the consequences for bypassing or tampering with the ISA device?

SteerSafe recommends violations result in:

Mandatory 6-month program extension
Required successful completion before license reinstatement
Potential additional penalties per local regulations

Will this program take considerable time to implement, given the policy is new to my state?

Components such as affordability programs, restricted license, application to the Department, and management of the program can be informed by your state’s ignition interlock statute. Departments can utilize best practices learned from management of the ignition interlock program to estimate implementation for this program. Additionally, the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators has released model legislation and is working on model regulations due by January 2027.

FAQs