Motorists who use a Sat Nav to navigate unfamiliar routes could face a hefty £200 fine and six penalty points on their licence if they misuse the device. A Reddit user recently sparked debate by asking: “Can you use your phone while it is mounted? Just wondering if it’s still illegal to use your phone while it’s mounted. Obviously I don’t mean scrolling on it, or going through apps, but if I need to confirm something on my GPS, am I allowed to tap it quickly? Or is that still considered phone use? I just want to know for future reference, like I said I’m specifically talking about tapping something once very quickly.”
However, according to government regulations, it’s illegal to use any device capable of sending or receiving data while driving or riding a motorcycle. This includes making calls, texting, taking photos or videos, browsing the internet, and even updating your Sat Nav. The law remains in effect even when stopped at traffic lights, stuck in traffic, supervising a learner driver, driving a car with stop-start technology, or using a device that’s offline or in flight mode,” it adds.
The only exceptions to this rule is when you’re making an emergency call to 999 or 112 and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop, or you’re making a contactless payment in a vehicle that is not moving, for example at a drive-through restaurant. You can also legally use an electronic device while in the car if you’re safely parked or if you’re using the device to park your vehicle remotely.
Those caught using an electronic device behind the wheel could face six penalty points and a £200 fine. But this isn’t the only thing drivers have to keep in mind when using a Sat Nav, as placing the device in the incorrect place could land them a fine or penalty points too. While it’s not illegal to place a Sat Nav in the middle of your windscreen, obstructing your view of the road could result in a £100 on-the-spot fine and three penalty points. This fine could increase to £1,000 if you challenge the charge in court.
According to the government: “You’ll also lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last two years. You can get three penalty points if you do not have a full view of the road and traffic ahead or proper control of the vehicle. You can also be taken to court where you can be banned from driving or riding, and get a maximum fine of £1,000 (£2,500 if you’re driving a lorry or bus).”
According to Halfords: “You should mount your Sat Nav in the bottom right corner of your windscreen to maximise your view of the road. If this isn’t possible, opt for the lowest point in the middle of the windscreen. Avoid placing the sat nav up high, as the cables can interfere with your vehicle controls. If you’re using your mobile phone as a sat nav, a car vent holder is great if you want to keep your windscreen clear.”
