Posted on the 8th May 2025 in PHTM News

SMARTWATCH WARNING: DRIVERS FACE £1,000 FINE FOR ON-ROAD USE

Motorists across the UK are being warned that glancing at a smartwatch while behind the wheel could result in a hefty fine of up to £1,000 and six penalty points on their driving licence.

While smartphones have long been recognised as a major source of driver distraction, concerns are mounting over the increasing number of incidents linked to smartwatches.

Despite the absence of specific legislation targeting smartwatch use while driving, authorities are clear that any electronic device capable of transmitting and receiving data falls under the umbrella of prohibited handheld devices.

This interpretation of existing laws, particularly Rule 149 of the Highway Code, means drivers could face severe consequences for even briefly interacting with their smartwatch.

Phil Leese, Taxi and Specialist Motor Trading Manager at ChoiceQuote, issued a stark warning, stating: "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 to your licence."

He further cautioned that in the event a smartwatch-related distraction leads to a serious accident, drivers could face even graver charges such as dangerous driving or driving without due care and attention, potentially resulting in a driving ban, significant fines, and even imprisonment.

The GOV.UK website reinforces this stance, clarifying that "even holding a phone while driving is illegal," a rule that extends to sat navs, tablets, and any device capable of sending or receiving data when the engine is running, even when stationary at traffic lights.

With smartwatch usage on the rise – research indicated 30% of the UK population wore one in 2020, with projections reaching 37% this year – the potential for distraction is a growing concern.

A study by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) revealed that a quarter of drivers admit to checking phone notifications while driving, a habit smartwatches are feared to replicate.

To avoid penalties and safeguard their licences, drivers are advised to either remove their smartwatches before driving and only put them back on once the engine is off, or to activate "do not disturb" or aeroplane mode to prevent notifications from causing distraction.


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