Millions of drivers risk huge fines for using everyday item in cars under 'stricter' rules

Millions of motorists are being warned of hefty road fines and licence points they could face for using their smartwatch when driving.

More than a third of drivers have admitted to using their smartwatch at the wheel, despite it being illegal.

The RAC has outlined that smartwatches occupy a "unique" grey area in the law, as there is no specific definition of what a smartwatch is.

It is illegal for drivers to hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device that can send or receive data when behind the wheel or riding a motorcycle.

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The law applies at traffic lights, when queuing in traffic, supervising a learner driver or holding and using a device that's offline or in flight mode.

There are a handful of exceptions, including needing to call 999 in an emergency, if they are safely parked, and they make a contactless payment in a stationary vehicle.

Drivers can get slapped with six penalty points on their licence and a £200 fine if they are caught holding or using their device when behind the wheel.

If a driver who has recently passed their test in the last two years is caught using their phone, they could even lose their licence.

Motorists can also be taken to court, which could see them banned from driving or riding, and receive a maximum fine of £1,000 or £2,500 if they're driving a bus.

RAC data shows that 13 per cent of people admit to using a smartwatch by touching it, while 12 per cent use voice commands only.

Just over half (56 per cent) of drivers with smartwatches use their devices on at least "most" journeys, potentially causing serious road safety issues.

Rod Dennis, road safety spokesperson at the RAC, said it wasn't currently clear whether using a smartwatch breaches the mobile phone driving rule.

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He added: "Drivers need to be mindful that being distracted by one is still an offence. Whether that's a £100 fine and three penalty points or careless or dangerous driving will depend on the seriousness.

"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 being used for communication purposes, which made it harder for the police to prosecute."

He suggested that the lack of clarity may be an example of technology outpacing legislation, especially as the number of people with the technology grows.

When using a smartwatch at the wheel, checking the time is the most common action with 81 per cent of people admitting to this.

Other actions include viewing notifications (50 per cent), checking their location (42 per cent) and making or receiving a phone call (40 per cent.

Mr Dennis added: "As smartwatch ownership becomes the norm for younger drivers, their use on the road is only likely to grow. This makes it all the more important that legislation and enforcement are clear, consistent and future‑proof.

"The threat of distraction from notifications or calls coming through on your wrist is real and we recommend drivers play it safe and resist the temptation to use them."

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