Drivers may be risking a hefty fine with what can be considered a major safety hazard and lead to charges of careless driving
Drivers could face a hefty four-figure fine for vaping behind the wheel, warn experts. While there’s no explicit law against using a vape while driving, large clouds of vapour in the car could be seen as a significant safety risk.
Specialists warn that exhaling vapour could obscure a driver’s view and lead to accusations of careless driving. Motorists might also face charges for driving without due care and attention, which can result in fines reaching into the thousands if the matter goes to court.
This lesser-known regulation could catch drivers off guard, whether they’re commuting or jetting off on their summer break.
Experts at Arnold Clark have issued a warning, saying: “Drivers could be slapped with a £100 fine for careless driving if the police conclude that the driver failed to properly control their vehicle because they were smoking.
“Motorists who are distracted by cigarette or vape smoke can be prosecuted for driving without due care and attention. The plume of smoke can hamper a driver’s vision and result in an accident.”
“In more serious cases, or those contested in court, the charge can attract a maximum £5,000 fine, up to nine penalty points and even a court-imposed driving ban.”
Earlier research conducted by IAMRoadSmart disclosed that 57% of motorists confess to vaping or smoking whilst at the wheel.
The study uncovered that almost one in four road users acknowledge doing this on a regular basis in a startling discovery, reports the Express.
The findings revealed that approximately 16% of drivers use vaping devices during lengthy trips, whilst 10% only resort to their gadgets when travelling solo. Nevertheless, impaired vision could constitute a violation of the Road Traffic Act 1988 and result in severe repercussions.
Beyond the financial penalties, motorists could face the prospect of receiving between three and nine penalty points on their driving licence, potentially forcing some individuals to lose their driving privileges entirely.
Confused.com said: “But what does the law say? Currently vaping while driving isn’t specifically illegal. However, large clouds of vapour could obscure your vision, which might result in a fine for driving without due care and attention.
“Police have highlighted this as being dangerous, and drivers could face costly penalties and points on their licence.