Two thirds back mandatory breathalysers in cars

Richard Aucock
Wed, 10 Sept 2025

Almost two in three drivers say they would back the mandatory fitment of breathalysers and accident black boxes in all new cars.

The survey findings come just weeks after the Department for Transport revealed a worrying 7% increase in drink-drive fatalities in the decade to 2023.

There were 260 drink-drive-related deaths in 2023 alone.

The survey, by car insurance firm Quotezone, quizzed drivers as debate continues over whether the UK will adopt the third phase of Europe’s GSR2 safety regulations, due to go live in July 2026.

This would require the fitment of event data recorders, or ‘black boxes’ to all new cars, along with the ability to fit an alcohol interlock ‘breathalyser’.

The UK has already adopted earlier iterations of GSR2, so it seems logical to carry on with the latest phase, although the UK Government has yet to confirm alignment.

An in-car breathalyser would require drivers to provide a breath sample before the engine will start. While the basic functionality would exist in all new cars, breathalyser equipment would probably only be fitted to cars owned by those convicted of drink-driving.

Black boxes, meanwhile, monitor speed, harsh braking and other driving parameters.

"While these devices are still relatively new to a lot of motorists, the survey reveals strong support across the UK and it’s clear that drivers recognise the potential of breathalysers and black boxes to encourage safer habits behind the wheel," says Quotezone CEO Greg Wilson.

"Of course, introducing these features raises questions around privacy and data use, which will need to be carefully addressed to ensure public confidence. Implementing these devices could also allow insurers to set more accurate pricing for motorists that continually drive safely."

There was particularly strong support for fitting black boxes as standard for newly-qualified drivers.

Statistics show a fifth of serious car collisions involve a young driver, with young makes four times as likely to be killed or seriously injured compared to all drivers aged 25 and over.

With fatalities from dangerous driving remaining stubbornly high, some experts believe that technology such as this could help change driver behaviour – and it seems as if the public might be behind it, too.

Ask HJ

How do I find the best insurance for a new (but not young) driver?

I recently passed my driving test and am looking to buy my first car. Unlike most new drivers, I am in my 40s and the car I want is a family saloon. How do I find the best value insurance in my situation? Is it worth looking at black box insurance?

If you’ve recently passed your driving test, it’s likely that you may see a higher premium for your insurance policy than others of your age as insurers may see your lack of experience as higher risk. But your age might also work in your favour on this occasion as premiums for a new driver in their 40s tend to be lower than for teenagers. Black box insurance can be a great way to keep costs down, but you might still get a great deal without. I’d recommend using a price comparison site to shop around before committing to a policy with or without black box car insurance.

Answered by Louise Thomas

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