UK drivers issued urgent £1,000 warning to anyone wearing wrist item

Brits have received a stern warning that wearing a smartwatch while could result in fines of up to £1,000 and up to six Traditionally, smartphones have been regarded as the primary distraction for due to the constant pings from text messages and phone calls.

However, there is now a significant increase in accidents attributed to smartwatches, which is confirmed to present the same distractions as mobile phones to motorists. show that 2020 about 30% of the UK population wore smartwatches. Now, in 2025, findings show that 37% of Brits are wearing some sort of smart wrist device.

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As , so do the dangers of being distracted while driving. While there are currently no specific laws surrounding the use of smartwatches while behind the wheel, motorists must not look at any electronic devices that can send and receive data while driving or risk losing their license.

A survey conducted by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) showed that one in four drivers admit to checking their phone notifications while behind the wheel and that smartwatches pose the same distraction. In accordance with Rule 149 of the Highway Code, all motorists are forbidden to use handheld mobile devices or similar devices.

The electronic device rule even restricts users from skipping a song, declining a call, or touching the screen to check the time.

Taxi and Specialist Motor Trading Manager at , Phil Leese, informs drivers: “If you are caught peeking at your smartwatch while driving, it could land you with a fine of up to £1,000 and up to 6 penalty points added you your license.”

Phil continues: “While there are no specific laws around the use of smartwatches while driving, if your smartwatch causes you to be distracted, which leads to a serious accident, you could be charged with dangerous driving or driving without due care and attention.”

He concludes that the penalties are severe if you are found driving dangerously from using a smartwatch. Ranging from a complete ban from driving, hefty fines and, in the worst case scenario, time behind bars.

According to the website, even holding a phone while driving is against the law. Similarly, with sat navs, tablets, or any device that can send or receive data while driving or riding a motorcycle, there is no acceptable reason to have a device in your hand, whether online or not.

These laws apply while the car is running. Therefore, even if you are stopped at the traffic lights, checking an electronic device is still an offence.

To avoid strict penalties and the potential loss of your driving license, it’s important to follow these steps when driving. Firstly, remove your smartwatch before getting into the car and only put it back on once the engine is turned off. If this isn't an option, consider setting your watch to do not disturb or aeroplane mode to avoid receiving notifications.