Motorists call for a ban on vaping behind the wheel

Written by: Fuel Card Services, Last updated:11th August 2020

Vaping motorists

The majority of UK motorists would like to see a ban on the use of e-cigarettes and vapes for drivers.

New research highlights the fact that almost three-quarters (73 per cent) of UK drivers would support such a move.

An end to hand-held distraction

Research carried out by independent car retailer Motorpoint revealed there are growing concerns around the level of distraction these devices can cause. It paints a stark picture for policymakers, given there is currently no law forbidding their use when a vehicle is in motion.

Mark Carpenter, CEO of Motorpoint, explained: “While there are no laws banning vaping in this country, considering the sheer volume of traffic on our roads it is paramount that we are all in control of our cars at all times.

“Which is why, just like mobiles, we’re seeing a growing call from all sides for all hand-held devices that could potentially be used behind the wheel to be banned from our roads.”

The calls follow a ban on smoking in vehicles that contain any individual under the age of 18, which came into effect in October 2015.

However, at present, while there is no ban on hand-held devices except mobile phones, drivers can face prosecution for driving without due care and attention if they are thought to be distracted or a danger at the wheel because of something they are holding.

Ellie Baker, brand manager at Fuel Card Services, comments: “Any action that requires the driver to take their hands off the wheel and to focus on something other than the road ahead of them has the potential to cause distraction. Banning the use of hand-held devices could help to save lives.”

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