The “Permislock”: A Revolution in Road Safety in Belgium ?
The Belgian government is planning to launch an innovative pilot project aimed at preventing a vehicle from starting when the driver has lost their driving license. This device, nicknamed the “Permislock,” is inspired by the “Alcolock,” which prevents a driver under the influence of alcohol from starting their vehicle.
How does the Permislock work?
With the upcoming digitization of driving licenses, an application could be developed to link the license to a system integrated into the vehicle. If a sanctioned driver attempts to start their car, the system will detect the absence of a valid license and prevent the engine from starting.
This project primarily aims to enhance road safety by preventing unlicensed drivers from getting behind the wheel, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and repeat offenses.
An Effective Solution Against Driving Despite a Ban
Currently, the loss or suspension of a driving license does not physically prevent a driver from taking to the road. Too often, motorists continue to drive despite a ban, endangering their own safety as well as that of other road users.
The Permislock would thus provide a concrete solution to this problem. By digitally linking the license to the vehicle, it would become technically impossible to drive without being in compliance with the law.
Legal and Practical Challenges
As a lawyer specializing in road safety law, I see this project as a major advancement but also a legal and technical challenge. Several questions arise:
- How can we ensure respect for drivers’ privacy while implementing this measure?
- What legislative framework will be put in place to regulate its use and prevent legal loopholes?
- What sanctions will be imposed in case of circumvention of the device?
The effectiveness of the Permislock will therefore depend not only on its technical implementation but also on the regulations accompanying it.
A Measure That Could Transform Road Safety
If the pilot project proves successful, the Permislock could become a standard measure to prevent unlicensed driving, just as the Alcolock is now used to combat drunk driving.
This initiative is part of a broader trend toward the digitization of road law and the strengthening of control tools, all with the goal of protecting all road users.
If you have any questions about the legal impact of this measure or if you are concerned about an offense related to road safety, do not hesitate to contact me for personalized legal assistance.
