Sat Nav users could be fined £1,000 for little-known placement mistake
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Many drivers rely on Sat Navs to navigate unfamiliar routes, but doing so could land them with a hefty £200 fine and six points on their licence if they use the device incorrectly. And even more for installing it in the wrong place. One Reddit user recently queried: "Can you use your phone while it is mounted? Just wondering if it's still illegal to use your phone while it's mounted. Obviously I don't mean scrolling on it, or going through apps, but if I need to confirm something on my GPS, am I allowed to tap it quickly? Or is that still considered phone use? I just want to know for future reference, like I said I'm specifically talking about tapping something once very quickly.".
However, government guidelines clearly state that it's illegal to use a phone, Sat Nav, tablet, or any data-sending or receiving device while driving or riding a motorcycle. This includes making calls, sending texts, taking photos or videos, browsing the internet, and even updating your Sat Nav.
The law applies even when stopped at traffic lights, stuck in traffic, supervising a learner driver, driving a car that turns off the engine when stationary, and holding and using a device that's offline or in flight mode," it adds. Motorists are being reminded that there are only a few exceptions to the strict rules on using electronic devices while driving.
You're allowed to make an emergency call to 999 or 112 if stopping is unsafe or impractical, or to make a contactless payment when stationary, such as at a drive-through. It's also legal to use a device in your car if you're safely parked or using it to remotely park your vehicle.
