While the highway code does not make it a specific offence to smoke or vape while driving, it is advised that you wait until you have pulled over safely or have finished driving. This is because, coupled with bad driving, or if they lead to an accident, any of these behaviours could result in a charge of careless driving, or not being in a position to control the vehicle. Vaping has become a popular habit across the UK, and whilst there are plenty of rules when it comes to lighting up a cigarette, the rules around vaping can be slightly confusing for Brits.
It might be tempting for vapers to reach for their vape whilst driving, however is it illegal to do this and what happens if you get caught? Nicotine expert, Markus Lindblad, from Northerner , reveals everything you need to know about vaping whilst driving. Is it illegal to vape whilst driving? Markus said: "When the rules were implemented, vapes weren’t around, so whilst the rules don’t specifically state that it’s illegal to vape in the car, it does state that anything that’s seen to be restricting a driver's view, such as smoke clouds, can be liable for enforcement." How much can I be fined for vaping in a car? Markus said: "If you’re driving and the police notice you’re vaping, you can be fined up to £100 on the spot.
However, depending on the seriousness of the case, if you’re caught vaping and end up in an accident, then you could be facing a fine of up to £5,000, nine penalty points, and even a court.