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Motorists are being urged to keep away from utilizing smartwatches behind the wheel, with laws protecting the devices described as “unclear”.
The RAC, which issued the plea, warned drivers might fall foul of handheld cellphone guidelines in the event that they clear notifications on smartwatches.
The motoring providers firm cautioned that smartwatch homeowners are “at nighttime” concerning the guidelines for utilizing whereas driving.
A survey commissioned by the RAC recommended 40 per cent of motorists who drive at the least as soon as a month personal a smartwatch, rising to 73 per cent amongst 17-34 year-olds.
Some 22 per cent of respondents with smartwatches stated they contact them whereas on the highway, whereas 21 per cent use voice instructions.
The RAC described these actions as “potential causes of distraction” however acknowledged individuals doing them “can’t be positive whether or not they’re committing an offence”.
It’s unlawful to make use of a hand-held cell phone whereas driving.
Within the majority of instances this carries a punishment of six factors and a £200 nice.
RAC highway security spokesman Rod Dennis stated: “Present laws on smartwatches is unclear and will result in drivers unwittingly paying the worth.
“As smartwatch possession turns into the norm for youthful drivers, their use on the highway is barely prone to develop.
“Lawmakers must get forward of this subject and make clear exactly what constitutes ‘use’ of a smartwatch whereas driving.”
Mr Dennis additionally warned there isn’t a doubt that being distracted by a smartwatch is an offence, and might be classed as careless or harmful driving relying on the seriousness of the incident.
He stated: “The specter of distraction from notifications or calls coming by means of in your wrist is actual and we advocate drivers play it secure and resist the temptation to make use of them.”
A Division for Transport spokesperson stated: “Drivers should stay in correct management of their autos and might be prosecuted if distracted or driving with out due care and a focus.
“Enhancing highway security is our precedence and we’re contemplating responses to a session on motoring offences as a part of our highway security technique, and we all the time hold motoring offences beneath evaluate.”
– The survey of 1,709 UK drivers was performed by analysis firm Online95 in July 2025.
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