As smart technology becomes an integral part of daily life, drivers in the UK are being urged to reconsider their habits behind the wheel. The RAC has raised concerns about the unclear legal status surrounding smartwatch usage when driving, warning that motorists could inadvertently breach laws designed to prevent distractions.
Uncertain Regulations Surround Smartwatch Use
In a recent advisory, the RAC highlighted a significant knowledge gap among motorists regarding the rules governing the use of smartwatches while driving. This lack of clarity could lead to unintentional violations of handheld phone regulations, which are strictly enforced. Recent surveys indicate that approximately 40% of drivers who take to the road at least once a month own a smartwatch, a figure that spikes to an impressive 73% among younger adults aged 17 to 34.
The study revealed that around 22% of smartwatch users admitted to interacting with their devices while driving, whether by touching the screen or using voice commands. The RAC has flagged these behaviours as potential distractions, yet many drivers may not even realise they could be committing an offence.
The Legal Landscape: What You Need to Know
It is already illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving, with offenders facing penalties that typically include six points on their licence and a £200 fine. However, the RAC’s road safety spokesman, Rod Dennis, pointed out that the current legislation surrounding smartwatches is ambiguous and could lead to drivers facing consequences they did not foresee.
“Smartwatch ownership is on the rise, particularly among younger drivers,” Dennis stated. “As their use on the road increases, it’s crucial that lawmakers clarify what constitutes ‘use’ of a smartwatch while driving.” His caution underscores the importance of understanding that distractions from notifications or calls can be classified as careless or dangerous driving, depending on the severity of the situation.
A Call for Action from Authorities
The RAC’s message is clear: drivers should exercise caution and avoid using smartwatches while on the road. The threat of distraction is significant, and with the increasing prevalence of these devices, the potential for incidents caused by inattentiveness grows. Dennis strongly recommended that motorists resist the urge to check their notifications while driving, advocating for a more responsible approach to technology use.
In response to these concerns, a spokesperson from the Department for Transport emphasised the importance of maintaining control of vehicles. “Drivers must remain in proper control and can be prosecuted if distracted or driving without due care and attention,” they stated. They also noted that the government is currently evaluating responses to consultations on motoring offences as part of its road safety strategy.
The Survey Insights
The findings of this survey, conducted by Online95 in July 2025, included responses from 1,709 UK drivers. The results reflect a growing trend of smartwatch ownership among the driving population, highlighting the urgent need for clarity in the law as it relates to these devices.
Why it Matters
The intersection of technology and road safety presents a pressing challenge for modern society. As smartwatches become ubiquitous, understanding the legal implications of their use while driving is critical. The potential for distraction poses real risks not only to the driver but also to passengers and pedestrians. By addressing these issues proactively, lawmakers can enhance road safety and ensure that motorists are informed and protected from unintended legal consequences.