17/04/2010
The convenience of having your satellite navigation system, or sat nav, prominently displayed on your car's windscreen is undeniable. It offers a clear line of sight to directions, minimising the need to look away from the road. However, a common question among drivers is whether it's actually permissible to mount a sat nav on their windscreen in the United Kingdom. This isn't just a matter of preference; it's governed by strict regulations designed to ensure road safety. Driving with a blocked or obscured view can lead to dangerous situations, and the authorities take this very seriously. Understanding the legalities surrounding windscreen-mounted devices is crucial for every driver to avoid potential fines and, more importantly, to maintain a safe driving environment for themselves and others.
Understanding the Law on Windscreen Mounts
In the UK, the primary legislation governing this area is the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the associated Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations. These laws are designed to prevent anything that could obstruct the driver's view of the road or the vehicle's controls. Specifically, Regulation 30 of the Construction and Use Regulations states that a person must not drive, or cause or permit to be driven, a motor vehicle if the windscreen or any other visual display unit fitted to the vehicle is in such a condition as to cause danger to the driver or to any other person.
While the law doesn't explicitly ban sat navs from windscreens, it does stipulate that the device must not cause an obstruction. This means the placement of your sat nav is critical. The device must not obscure more than a small area of the windscreen. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), formerly the DSA, states that a windscreen must be kept clear of obstructions in the driver's field of vision. This generally means that the area swept by the windscreen wipers should be kept as clear as possible, and any obstruction should not cover a significant portion of the windscreen.
The key is to position the sat nav so it doesn't impede your view of the road. The most common and legally accepted positions are:
- Bottom corner of the windscreen: Typically, the lower corner, either on the passenger side or driver's side, is considered acceptable as long as it doesn't interfere with the driver's primary field of vision.
- Near the centre of the dashboard: Some drivers opt for dashboard mounts that position the sat nav at the base of the windscreen, allowing for a clear view of the road ahead.
It is crucial to ensure that the mount itself does not obstruct your view. A bulky or poorly placed mount can be just as problematic as the device itself. Always check your positioning before setting off on a journey.
The Risks of Poor Placement
Improper placement of a sat nav can lead to several dangerous scenarios:
- Obstructed View: The most obvious risk is a direct obstruction of the driver's view of the road, potential hazards, or other vehicles. This is particularly dangerous at junctions, roundabouts, or when changing lanes.
- Distraction: Even if not directly obstructing the view, a sat nav placed too high or too close to the driver's direct line of sight can be a significant distraction. Fiddling with the device or being drawn to its display can take attention away from driving.
- Legal Penalties: If stopped by the police and found to have a dangerously positioned sat nav, you could face penalties. This might include a fixed penalty notice, potentially a £100 fine, and three penalty points on your licence. In more severe cases, or if it contributes to an accident, charges related to dangerous driving could be brought.
What Constitutes an "Obstruction"?
The definition of an "obstruction" can be somewhat subjective, but generally, it refers to anything that significantly impedes the driver's ability to see the road clearly. The DVSA guidelines suggest that the area swept by the windscreen wipers is the most critical. Any device, including a sat nav, that encroaches significantly into this area, or into the driver's direct line of sight, is likely to be considered an obstruction.
Alternative Mounting Options
Given the legal nuances and safety considerations, many drivers choose to avoid windscreen mounts altogether. Here are some popular and safer alternatives:
Dashboard Mounts
These mounts typically attach to the dashboard using adhesive pads or suction cups. They offer a good balance of visibility and legality, as they are usually positioned at the base of the windscreen or on the dashboard itself, away from the primary driving view.
Vent Mounts
These clever devices clip onto your car's air vents. They are a popular choice because they are unobtrusive and can be easily repositioned. However, it's worth noting that they can sometimes block airflow from the vent, which might be a consideration in extreme weather.
CD Slot Mounts
If your car still has a CD player, a CD slot mount can be a secure and convenient option. These mounts slot into the CD player's opening, holding the sat nav firmly in place without obstructing your view.
Custom Solutions
Some drivers opt for more integrated solutions, such as dashboard pods or custom-built mounts that blend seamlessly with the car's interior. These often provide the most aesthetically pleasing and secure option, though they can be more expensive.
The same rules apply whether you're using a dedicated sat nav device or your smartphone for navigation. Many people now rely on their smartphones, using apps like Google Maps or Waze. The legal and safety considerations for mounting a smartphone are identical to those for a traditional sat nav. Ensure your phone is mounted securely and does not obstruct your view.
It's also important to remember the law regarding using your phone while driving. Even if mounted, you must not touch your phone while the engine is running, unless you are safely parked. All interactions with your navigation app should be done before you start driving or by a passenger.
Checking Your Local Regulations
While the national laws are clear, it's always a good practice to be aware of any local variations or specific police enforcement priorities. However, adhering to the principle of ensuring your windscreen is clear and your view is unobstructed will generally keep you on the right side of the law.
Quick Checklist for Safe Mounting:
- Is the device in the driver's primary field of vision? If yes, it's likely too high or too central.
- Does the device or mount obscure the area swept by the windscreen wipers? If yes, it's an obstruction.
- Can you see the entire road ahead clearly without looking around the device? If not, reposition.
- Is the device secure? A falling device is a significant hazard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I put my sat nav anywhere on the windscreen?
No, you must ensure it does not obstruct your view of the road. The lower corners are generally acceptable, but avoid the centre or areas directly in your line of sight.
Q2: What happens if the police stop me for a windscreen obstruction?
You could receive a £100 fine and three penalty points on your licence. In severe cases, it could be considered dangerous driving.
Q3: Are dashboard mounts safer than windscreen mounts?
Generally, yes. Dashboard mounts are less likely to obstruct your view, provided they are also positioned correctly and don't create a glare.
Q4: Does this law apply to tinted windscreens?
The law focuses on obstructions, not the tint itself. However, any device mounted on a tinted windscreen must still not obscure the driver's vision.
Q5: Can I use my phone as a sat nav on the windscreen?
Yes, but the same rules about not obstructing your view apply. You also cannot touch your phone while driving; all interactions must be done before driving or by a passenger.
In conclusion, while placing a sat nav on your windscreen might seem like the most straightforward option, it comes with significant legal and safety caveats. Prioritising a clear and unobstructed view of the road is paramount. By understanding the regulations and opting for sensible mounting positions or alternative solutions, you can navigate with confidence and stay safe on UK roads.
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