Can You Vape While Driving in the UK?

Vaping while driving has become a common topic of discussion among drivers in the UK, especially regarding how safe and legal the practice is. While there are currently no specific bans on vaping while driving, the rules around safe driving practices still apply. In this article, we will explore the legality, risks, and potential future changes to vaping in car laws in the UK, as well as how they compare to smoking regulations.

Is It Illegal to Vape While Driving in the UK?

Vaping while driving is not explicitly banned in the UK. However, drivers are expected to maintain full control of their vehicles, and any distractions can result in charges. Police can issue fines of £100 and 3 penalty points if they believe vaping caused distracted driving. In severe cases, such as accidents, penalties can escalate significantly, including up to £5,000 fines and potential driving bans. How does this compare to smoking? Well, similarly to vaping, smoking while driving is not illegal in the UK. But, if either activity is determined to contribute to unsafe driving, drivers will face consequences.

What To Know About Vaping In Cars in the UK

There are several health, safety, and regulatory considerations to be mindful of. Large vapour clouds can obscure vision, which can lead to dangerous driving situations. If you do choose to vape in your car, ensuring good ventilation inside the car can help minimise visibility risks.

If you drive a company car for work, be aware of the fact that some employers may have specific policies banning vaping in company cars or work-related vehicles, so you’ll want to check with your employer for clarity.

Vaping While Driving – Safety Concerns

Among the main concerns with vaping while driving is the possibility of distractions. Adjusting vaping devices, refilling e-liquid, or changing settings while driving can divert attention from the road. And, the risk of an accident increases any time a driver takes his or her hands off the wheel, even for a moment. What can you do to stay safe? To avoid potential distractions, it is recommended to vape only when the vehicle is safely parked. Keeping vapour output to a minimum will also help maintain a clear view of the road.

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Can You Vape In A Car With A Child In The UK?

Unlike smoking, vaping in a car with a child under 18 is not currently illegal in the UK. Smoking in vehicles with minors has been banned since 2015 to protect against secondhand smoke, but this restriction does not extend to vaping.

There are ongoing discussions about possibly expanding the smoking ban to include vaping when children are in the vehicle due to concerns about chemical exposure from vapour. However, no such regulations have been passed as of November 2024.

Can You Smoke Whilst Driving?

While smoking in a vehicle is not explicitly illegal, the laws around distractions still apply. Drivers can be fined if smoking is deemed to interfere with control of the vehicle.

As mentioned above, the impact of visibility is important, too. Smoking and vaping can obstruct visibility, especially if ash or lit materials distract the driver. UK Police recommend that drivers do everything possible to ensure smoking does not compromise driving safety.

The Bottom Line On Vaping and Smoking Whilst Driving

Vaping and smoking while driving are not banned activities in the UK, but both carry risks if they lead to distractions or impact visibility. Large vapour clouds or lighting a cigarette can be enough for police to take action if they believe the driver is not in full control of the vehicle.

It’s crucial for drivers to stay focused, use discretion, and avoid any behaviours that might affect their driving abilities. While vaping with children in the car is currently allowed, future regulations may change. To stay safe and avoid legal trouble, always prioritise safety when choosing to vape or smoke in a vehicle.

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