Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleThe RAC is urging motorists to avoid using smartwatches while driving due to unclear legislation that could lead to drivers inadvertently breaking handheld phone rules. A survey revealed that 40 per cent of UK drivers own a smartwatch, with this figure rising to 73 per cent among 17-34 year-olds. Of those with smartwatches, 22 per cent admit to touching them and 21 per cent use voice commands while driving, actions the RAC deems potential causes of distraction. Current laws make it illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving, typically resulting in six points and a £200 fine, and distraction from a smartwatch could lead to charges of careless or dangerous driving. Both the RAC and the Department for Transport acknowledge the need for clearer guidance on smartwatch use, with the DfT stating it keeps motoring offences under review. In fullIs using a smartwatch while driving illegal? Motorists urged to act or could ‘unwittingly pay the price’Thank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
Motorists urged to avoid smartwatches while driving amid legal grey area
Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleThe RAC is urging motorists to avoid using smartwatches while driving due to unclear legislation that could lead to drivers inadvertently breaking handheld phone rules. A survey revealed that 40 per cent of UK drivers own a smartwatch, with this figure rising to 73 per cent among 17-34 year-olds. Of those with smartwatches, 22 per cent admit to touching them and 21 per cent use voice commands while driving, actions the RAC deems potential causes of distraction. Current laws make it illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving, typically resulting in six points and a £200 fine, and distraction from a smartwatch could lead to charges of careless or dangerous driving. Both the RAC and the Department for Transport acknowledge the need for clearer guidance on smartwatch use, with the DfT stating it keeps motoring offences under review. In fullIs using a smartwatch while driving illegal? Motorists urged to act or could ‘unwittingly pay the price’Thank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
UK RAC warns of legal grey area around smartwatch use while driving—40% of motorists own them, 22% interact with them behind the wheel, creating distraction risk. Regulatory ambiguity creates compliance exposure for businesses managing driver safety and device policies; authorities acknowledge the need for clearer guidance on wearable governance.
