Drivers in the UK who use their smartwatches while behind the wheel have been warned they could face a £200 fine and six penalty points. The RAC has issued a fresh alert, highlighting that the law treats smartwatches the same as mobile phones or sat-navs when used while driving.
Smartwatch ownership on the rise
The RAC found that 40% of all drivers own a smartwatch, with ownership rising to 73% among younger drivers. However, using these devices while driving can lead to serious penalties. In a video, an RAC team member explained: "While glancing at your smartwatch isn't automatically illegal, looking at it, using voice commands or touching it are all potential distractions."
One in three drivers admit to using smartwatches at the wheel
New research reveals that over a third (34%) of drivers admit they have actively used their smartwatches while driving. The RAC warned: "If the police think you are using your watch as a handheld device, you could be charged the same penalty as using your mobile phone. That's a minimum of six penalty points and a £200 fine."
The penalty may be reduced if police cannot prove the watch was used, but drivers could still be charged with driving without proper control. More serious charges, such as careless or dangerous driving, apply if the smartwatch use caused harm to a person or damage to another vehicle.
Legislation struggling to keep pace with technology
RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said: "In 2022, the Government introduced stricter rules, making any interaction with a handheld mobile phone while driving illegal. Before this, the device had to be used for communication purposes, which made it harder for the police to prosecute."
He added: "The case of smartwatches is perhaps an example of technology outpacing legislation. With so many drivers admitting to using smartwatches at the wheel, lawmakers need to get ahead of this issue - and clarify precisely what constitutes ‘use’ of a smartwatch while driving."
Younger drivers most at risk
As smartwatch ownership becomes the norm for younger drivers, their use on the road is only likely to grow. Dennis concluded: "This makes it all the more important that legislation and enforcement are clear, consistent and future‑proof."
