When it comes to using sat navs and phones for directions in cars, there are a few question marks over the law.

A spokesman for the RAC, Simon Williams, said: “There does appear to be real confusion among drivers regarding both mobile phones as sat navs and where to put them.”

And with the Highway Code indicating that drivers should keep their windscreens clear, it begs the question: where are you supposed to place it?

Here’s everything you need to know about sav nav laws in the UK, driving fines, and everything in between.

The current UK sat nav laws

While the laws surrounding sat nav positioning remain fuzzy, using a mobile phone as an alternative is relatively clear.

If you touch your phone while moving, you could receive a £200 fine and six penalty points on your license. So if you need to change the route, make sure you pull over and turn off the engine before doing so.

The current law surrounding sat navs is slightly different and less transparent. The vehicle installation warnings advise that your sat nav shouldn’t:

  • Interfere with vehicle operating controls or obstruct a driver’s view of the road.
  • Be placed in front of or above any airbag.
  • Be positioned where it could distract a driver if it falls down from the windscreen.

Before using it, you should always check local laws to see if there are any specific ones in place.

Where to mount your sat nav

Using the general consensus, here are a few tips on where the safest place is to position your sat nav or phone in your car.

Top tip: Before choosing where to put your sat nav, make sure your seat is at the right height and position to suit your body shape. If you don’t do this, you could get the sat nav positioning wrong.

You should mount your sat nav in the bottom right corner of your windscreen to maximise your view of the road. If this isn’t possible, opt for the lowest point in the middle of the windscreen.

Avoid placing the sat nav up high, as the cables can interfere with your vehicle controls. If you’re using your mobile phone as a sat nav, a car vent holder is great if you want to keep your windscreen clear.

So, that’s our guide on where to fix your sat nav to ensure you’re following the guidance – and can still see where you’re going! For any other motoring advice, check out our help & advice hub on Halfords.com.

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