A fifth of motorists think you can use social media when driving

Nearly 20% of British motorists think you can check your social media when driving according to a survey. 

The survey from legal firm Simpson Millar found that 18% of those who have used social media at the wheel agreed that they could check or update social media and drive safely at the same time while 46% believed that accessing social media did not cause a problem if they were stationary in traffic.

Eighteen percent of all British adults admitted to using social media behind the wheel and 26% of those admitted that the desire to keep in touch with people was one of the main reasons they have flouted the law. One-in-six said they had made a call without a hands-free kit. 

In addition, although 89% of British adults recognised that there is some sort of penalty for using a mobile phone at the wheel, just under half (47%) knew the current penalty. 

Head of motoring offences at Simpson Millar Julie Robertson said: “While social media has become a large part of our everyday lives, it is important for drivers not to engage in social media activities or use their telephone whilst driving due to the dangers this can cause.

“Using a mobile telephone whilst driving carries three penalty points. However, if the standard of a motorist’s driving is compromised, a prosecution for driving without due care and attention or, worse still, dangerous driving can result. This can result in someone potentially facing the loss of their driving licence, livelihood or even their liberty just because they prioritised using their phone to talk, check emails or to access social media over driving."