Steer Safe

What is the cost of the ISA device?

The program includes three standard fees:

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

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

SteerSafe recommends that states create an affordability program to which applicants provide proof of enrollment in a public assistance program such as:

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Eligible participants could receive a discount on both installation fees and monthly lease payments.

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 all modern vehicles, including hybrids, EVs, and push-to-start ignitions. However, installation on older models (pre-2000) may require additional equipment and could take longer due to variations in vehicle technology.

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?

The system can be configured with an emergency override feature, allowing temporary acceleration for safety reasons. When activated, it provides a pre-programmed time and distance (e.g., one minute) to safely pass or merge. However frequent use is discouraged. Overrides should be limited to a few times per month to ensure responsible driving habits.

Does the automatic slowing feature create a safety hazard?

No. The system gradually reduces speed by coasting (not braking), maintaining natural deceleration. This ensures smooth transitions to the speed limit without sudden stops that could endanger other drivers.

Can the device remotely shut down my car?

No. The system will not shut down your vehicle unless the device has been tampered with. In such cases, the user must report to an authorized service center for proper reinstallation. If this is not done within a required timeframe, the vehicle may enter a lockout mode (similar to ignition interlock systems) until the necessary inspection is completed. The vehicle will not shut down while in motion.

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

FAQs