Drivers are being warned about a habit that could cost you £5,000 in fines if you do it whilst driving. Not only could you find yourself entangled in legal troubles, but it can also reduce visibility and lead to serious safety issues.
Experts at bigwantsyourcar.com are warning drivers who vape that they could face serious consequences if they vape whilst driving.
Although vaping and smoking whilst driving is not illegal, unless you have people under 18 in your vehicle, it can seriously compromise your safety. This is because, as the experts state, it “can significantly reduce your visibility and distract you.”
In a poll by the road safety charity, IAM RoadSmart, found that 57% of smokers with a driving licence said they smoke or vape while driving. Of those who smoke while driving, just under one in four (24%) admitted they do so often, and almost half (49%) said they do so only occasionally.
Meanwhile, 16% responded that they only vape or smoke on long journeys and one in ten revealed they only smoke if they have no passengers in their vehicle. Even if only done occasionally, smoking or vaping whilst driving can cause serious safety issues and see you facing a fine of thousands of pounds.
The experts at bigwantsyourcar.com cited the Road Traffic Act, claiming that under the act, “anything that obscurers a driver’s vision, including vape smoke, can be considered as driving without due care. Drivers may face up to a £5,000 fine and nine points on their licence.”
It is imperative drivers “consider the risks associated with vaping while driving,” the experts warn. “Not only could it compromise your ability to see the road clearly, but it can also result in severe penalties that affect your driving privileges and your wallet.”
“Maintaining clear visibility while driving is vital. Vaping can create a cloud inside the vehicle that might obscure your view, putting you at risk of violating traffic laws and facing substantial fines, but most importantly, putting you and other road users around you in harm’s way.”
So, whilst it may not be illegal, next time you’re thinking about vaping whilst driving, be sure to consider the consequences of doing so and help keep yourself and other drivers safe.