Drivers across Britain have been warned about using one thing that could lead to fines of up to £1,000. Using a mobile phone while driving is already restricted, but according to some experts, using a smartwatch is equally dangerous and can cause many distractions.
According to research, there has been a significant rise in the number of accidents linked to smartwatches. It shows that around 30% of the UK population wore smartwatches in 2020, a figure expected to rise to 37% by 2025, reports Nottinghamshire Live. Apart from the £1k fine, motorists will also be issued with six penalty points on their licence, the experts have warned.
Phil Leese, taxi and specialist motor trading manager at ChoiceQuote, said: “If you are caught peeking at your smartwatch while driving, it could land you with a fine of up to £1,000 and up to 6 penalty points added you your license.”
He also said that while there are no specific laws regarding the use of smartwatches while driving, if your smartwatch causes you to be distracted, leading to a serious accident, you could be charged with dangerous driving or driving without due care and attention.
The GOV.UK website clarifies that even holding a phone while driving is illegal. This rule also applies to sat navs, tablets, or any device capable of sending or receiving data while driving or riding a motorcycle.
A study by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) found that one in four drivers admit to checking their phone notifications while driving, and smartwatches pose the same distraction.
According to Rule 149 of the Highway Code, all drivers are prohibited from using handheld mobile devices or similar gadgets, reports the Mirror.
This rule even forbids users from skipping a song, declining a call, or touching the screen to check the time.
