Motorists could be slapped with hefty penalties for using popular satellite navigation apps while behind the wheel, according to experts. Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, warns road users could be caught out and fined due to a motoring “grey area”.
Google Maps or Apple Maps are often as accurate as traditional sat nav devices and can be legally viewed as long as a mobile phone is placed in a hands-free cradle. However, many of these apps rely on real-time traffic data with user-submitted updates now becoming a major part of how information is collected. Experts stress that touching a phone to file a traffic report could backfire due to a simple rule with individuals told to think twice before touching their device.
Graham said: “Google Maps is a brilliant tool, but prompts asking whether there’s congestion or a crash can be a real grey area when it comes to the law. If you interact with your phone while driving, even just to tap the screen or respond to a prompt, you might be putting yourself at risk of a fine.”
It comes after laws around the use of mobile phones while driving were toughened up back in 2022. Previously, road users had to send a digital communication, such as a text, to be issued fines.
However, the new guidelines mean that it is now against the rules to touch a phone for almost any reason, including simply checking notifications.
Motorists caught breaking the rules could be slapped with careless driving penalties which start from a £100 fine and penalty points on a driving licence.
Graham added: “While there are clear guidelines around holding a phone, the rules aren’t super clear about whether interacting with these devices, such as regularly reporting whether there is an accident or roadworks, is illegal or not.
“According to West Yorkshire Police, pushing buttons or touching a phone in a cradle is not automatically an offence, so long as you’re not holding it. Their guidance says that pushing buttons or touching a phone while it’s in a cradle is not strictly prohibited according to the rules, but it’s still inadvisable to touch your phone while driving.
“Even if you avoid prosecution for using a mobile device while driving, police still have the power to issue a careless driving charge if they believe your actions were distracting or dangerous. This could result in a £100 fine and three penalty points on your licence.
“It’s always best to err on the side of caution. Set your route before you start your journey and avoid interacting with your device while you’re driving.”