Using a sat nav while driving is an everyday occurrence for people all over the world. But, do you know what the law says about it? In this blog post, we’re going to clue you up to the legalities of using those helpful navigation devices when you’re driving.
We also have a handy blog about the 2022 mobile phone laws to help you stay safe and legal on the road.
Using a sat nav while driving
Obviously, it’s perfectly legal to use a sat nav while travelling. However, there are some basic sat nav safety obligations that you have to obey.
- The device can’t block your view of the road or the traffic ahead
- You can’t hold the device while you’re driving
- You can’t hold the device while you’re stopped at traffic lights, queuing in traffic, or if you’re supervising a learner driver
To have your sat nav, or to use a phone with sat nav built in, you need to make sure you programme it to your route before you begin your journey, or while you’re safely parked.
Fasten your sat nav securely where it won’t be a distraction. Lots of vehicles have them built in, or you can secure them using a windscreen mount or a dashboard holder.
You must remain in control of the vehicle at all times. If the police suspect you’re distracted, you can be pulled over and prosecuted.
It’s illegal to hold a sat nav or a phone while you’re driving. If you need to change your route while you’re driving, ask a passenger or use a Bluetooth headset or voice commands.
Check out these strange driving laws you might break every day.
Wondering what the penalties are for speeding in the UK? Find out here.
Penalties for incorrectly using a sat nav while driving
Misusing your sat nav while behind the wheel can get you some nasty penalties. If you don’t have a clear view of traffic and the road and you’re not in proper control of the vehicle, you can get three penalty points.
If you use a hand-held phone for your sat nav while driving, you could be facing 6 penalty points and a £200 fine. You will lose your license completely if you have been driving for less than two years.
In the most extreme cases, you can even be taken to court. You could face a driving ban and a fine of up to £1,000. The fine can go up to £2,500 if you’re driving a lorry or a bus.
Check out our handy Highway Code reminders for more advice on staying safe on the road.
Stay safe
When you head out on your next trip, make sure you’re safe. Use your sat nav with care and make sure your attention is always on the road.
Some of our hire cars come with built in sat nav devices. These make it really easy for you to get around. Take a look at our hire cars and book yours today.