Understanding new traffic rules might be complicated, but the state of Wisconsin has a bill to control people driving in a dangerous way over and over again. If this is approved, these drivers would have to install a special device on their vehicles to limit the speed and avoid driving too fast. So, let’s find out more about this proposal.
Why Wisconsin wants this new law
In Wisconsin there’s a huge issue with people driving dangerously. Many drivers keep driving too fast, even though they have been fined or detained before… Of course, this attitude has unfortunately caused thousands of traffic accidents. In fact, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, in 2024 there were more than 6,500 accidents caused by people driving too fast or dangerously.
As this problem is growing, lawmakers want to apply stricter rules for those who repeat these attitudes. The main idea is to avoid these people continuing putting others at risk and finally change the way they drive.
If it’s approved
The proposal says that every driver convicted of two or more dangerous driving offenses within five years would be required to install a speed-limiting device in their cars. The same rule applies to drivers who go more than 20 miles per hour over the speed limit.
This device is not optional, it’s mandatory for everybody who fall under these categories would be forced to install it as part of the punishment for their behavior.
How does the device work?
It’s very simple: when a driver surpasses the speed limit, the device makes the engine slowly lower its power. Therefore, the speed is automatically reduced and it doesn’t allow the driver to go faster than it should be.
Drivers would have to keep this device installed on their cars for a whole year. If after that time they show they have changed their habits and drive safely, they could remove it. However, if someone keeps driving in a risky way, authorities could demand them to keep the device longer, according to the system’s rules.
How much money?
One of the most talked points about this device is its price because the installation and the maintenance costs about $1,700 per year! And if you were thinking that authorities help drivers pay it, let me tell you they don’t. Paying for the device is only the responsibility of those who have repeatedly driven recklessly, not the rest of citizens.
Why the law focuses on repeat offenders
This proposal is focused specifically on repeat offenders, those who keep ignoring speed limits and safe driving rules even after getting caught. Supporters of the law believe that these offenders are the biggest contributors to dangerous driving situations in the state. They argue that regular punishments, such as fines, are not strong enough to stop this behavior. Therefore, forcing offenders to use a device that limits their speed may be the only effective way to change their actions immediately in Wisconsin.
The debate
Despite the high support, others think the solution shouldn’t be installing devices inside cars. However, they believe that cameras are better because they are more effective and less invasive.
Also, there are people worried because some of these devices could include GPS tracking systems, so they fear this could become cars into tools from the government to monitor citizens. Of course, they consider their privacy to be damaged.
When could the new law be applied in Wisconsin?
If this is approved, it would start in January 2026 and it would only affect repeat offenders, not every driver. So, if you happen to go to Wisconsin, or you live there; you should think about the importance of driving safely. This is important for your wallet, but also for your safety and other’s.