UK Drivers Face Fines for Phone GPS Use Starting 2026 Under New Proposed Law

London, UK – A controversial new regulation, reportedly set to take effect on April 7, 2026, could see UK drivers fined and accrue license points for using phone-based GPS applications like Google Maps or Waze, even when mounted and used hands-free. The proposed law, which the video attributes to the Department for Transport and the Home Office, aims to curb rising road accidents linked to driver distraction from mobile navigation. Under the alleged new rule, only integrated, built-in satellite navigation systems would be considered legal for use while driving. Any driver caught using a mobile phone for GPS, regardless of whether they are touching the screen, could face a fixed penalty of £200 and six points on their license. Road safety advocates are reportedly welcoming this measure as a long-overdue crackdown on digital distractions behind the wheel. However, the announcement has drawn sharp criticism from various groups, including motorists and driving organizations. Critics argue that such a regulation is unrealistic and would unfairly penalize millions of drivers, particularly younger individuals and gig workers who heavily rely on their smartphones for navigation and may not be able to afford modern vehicles with integrated systems. The debate highlights a growing tension between road safety objectives and the practical realities faced by everyday drivers.

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