Drivers warned they could reach fines of £5k for doing this behind the wheel even though it’s ‘not illegal’
Almost one in three drivers admit to smoking or vaping whilst on the road. But how legal is it to do so? According to experts, although the act of vaping itself isn't illegal you could still land a whopping £5k fine by doing so - and furious drivers want to know why.
The motoring experts at Moneybarn Car Finances have provided their insight into the dangers of vaping and driving, as well as the hefty fines you may face if you do so, and it all comes down to safety and avoiding the dangers associated with vaping while driving. Whilst it may seem like a harmless activity, when done behind the wheel, it can pose significant risks for the driver, and passengers.
Obstructed vision
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Even though it might be tempting to vape whilst driving, it's crucial to wait until your vehicle is stationary. Vaping while moving can lead to visual obstructions, as the thick clouds of vapour can linger in front of the windscreen, increasing the risk of an accident. If you do choose to vape while driving, keeping your windows down is essential to prevent vapour from accumulating inside the vehicle.
Impaired hand-eye coordination
Similarly to using your phone or smoking whilst driving, handling a vaping device while driving requires taking one hand off the wheel and shifting your focus away from the road, even if only momentarily. This split-second distraction can lead to delayed reactions to road conditions or sudden obstacles.
Distraction from the road
Vaping can also diminish your overall awareness of your surroundings, especially if you're focused on the act of vaping itself. This decreased awareness can make it harder to notice visual and auditory cues on the road, such as emergency vehicles, pedestrians, or changing traffic signals.
"While vaping and driving itself isn't illegal, drivers can be prosecuted if the vape clouds are found to obstruct their view," says one expert. "Vape smoke can create visual impairments that can lead to serious accidents. If caught, and the police believe the smoke has been obstructing your ability to drive safely, you could face a fine of up to £5000."
Smoking in your car offers up different rules again - more so because it it illegal. "It is illegal to smoke in a vehicle with anyone under 18 present, even if you have the windows or sunroof open. Smoking in the open doorway of your car with children present is also against the law.
"However, you can legally smoke in a convertible car if the roof is completely down. You must ensure the roof is fully down to comply with regulations, especially if your passengers include children, or you could be hit with a fine of £50. Although you can legally smoke in a convertible car if the roof is completely down, you should avoid doing anything that distracts you from driving or might reduce your focus on the road."
