Can You Be Penalised for Using a Windscreen Phone Holder?
Navigating through unfamiliar roads has become significantly easier thanks to smartphone-based GPS systems. However, the legality of placing a phone holder on a car’s windscreen remains a topic of debate. Are there specific guidelines or restrictions on its placement?
Can You Be Penalised for Using a Windscreen Phone Holder?
Safety authorities caution that improper placement of a device on your car’s windscreen could lead to accidents. Initially, the law only prohibited making hand-held calls or sending messages while driving, termed as ‘interactive communication.’
In 2022, legislative changes closed existing loopholes, making it unlawful for drivers to even touch their mobile devices, except in genuine emergencies. Violators risk fines, points on their driving licence, and potentially more severe penalties for video calling while driving.
However, hands-free calls and using your phone for navigation are still permissible, provided you set your destination before driving. Interestingly, there’s an exception for drive-thrus and road tolls, allowing you to use your phone for payments.
Where Should You Place Your Phone Holder?
The Highway Code doesn’t offer explicit guidelines on the placement of phone or sat-nav holders. However, any object that obstructs your view could be considered a violation. The Road Traffic Act stipulates that drivers must have a clear view of the road and traffic ahead.
Neil Worth, a road safety officer, suggests that the safest position for a phone holder is in the bottom right-hand corner of the windscreen. The AA also advises setting your route on the sat-nav before starting your journey.
Legal Consequences of Improper Sat-Nav Placement
While it’s not strictly illegal to mount a sat-nav in the middle of your windscreen, doing so could result in a £100 instant fine. Additionally, you could receive six penalty points on your licence. Challenging this in court and losing could lead to a £1,000 fine.
If your sat-nav’s placement contributes to an accident, you’re more likely to be held responsible. This could also affect your insurance claims. Moreover, using a sat-nav or phone not fixed to the dashboard or windscreen could result in a £200 fine and up to six penalty points.
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If you have been charged with a road traffic offence, have received a summons or a Notice of Intended Prosecution then speaking to us is a good idea. You can call us for FREE on 0800 999 5535 and have an initial phone consultation so we can get a better idea of your case. Road traffic law is complicated and if you get it wrong it could mean a hefty fine and / or a period of disqualification so please give us a call, even if it is just to put your mind at rest.
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