It is alleged that the massive amounts of smoke that originates from both vapes and e-cigarettes can easily reduce a driver’s line of vision — which could ultimately lead to a accident or crash.
Drivers could potentially face the same penalty in the UK as if they were caught on a cell phone, according to RAC.
Police have additionally warned how in certain circumstances, vaping behind the wheel is against the law and drivers could receive three, six or nine points on their license.
And in severe cases, they could even see a driving ban.
They additionally could face a fine of up to $3,200.
And while vaping is not illegal in the UK or the US— the handheld devices have the ability to distract drivers, which in turn could take their focus off the road.
UK police share how the main concern is the volume of smoke when vaping — which could obscure a driver’s view of the road.
The Surrey and Sussex Roads Policing Unit’s Sergeant Carl Knapp, said:
“The smoke caused by vapes is a distraction, and the consequences can be dire.”
“All it takes is a moment to become distracted and potentially cause a crash or, even worse, a fatality.”
“There are no laws prohibiting vaping. However, you need to be in full and proper control of your vehicle at all times.”
Surrey Police’s Sgt. John Davis added:
“Firstly, any person who is distracted in any way could be guilty of an offense – whether that be smoking, vaping, eating, etc.”
Davis continued, sharing:
“I am unaware of any studies, either in the UK or elsewhere, where the effects of vaping have been looked at. In investigations that we conduct, any distraction would need to be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.”
“With regards a national discussion, it hasn’t been raised as an issue, so it’s unlikely to be discussed at a national level. The Highway Code also covers distractions, as does the law.”
“It would be impractical to bring in a law for any new ‘distraction’ that comes along. The mobile phone laws were brought in and then penalties increased because it became a very real problem.”
Sgt. Davis continued to share scenarios where motorists were considered distracted by their e-cigarettes would be dealt with on a “case-by-case basis.”
He added how specific laws in regards to vaping behind the wheel were unlikely to come into common practice any time soon.
According to the Mayo Clinic:
“Using e-cigarettes — a practice often referred to as “vaping” — has been touted as a safe alternative to tobacco cigarettes. Although more research is needed to understand all the effects of vaping, it’s clear that vaping can negatively affect health.”
And just because it is not smoking cigarettes, doesn’t mean it is better for you.
“One of the primary concerns regarding e-cigarettes is that most contain nicotine — a highly addictive substance. Once you become dependent on nicotine, it’s extremely difficult to stop using it. Attempts to quit using nicotine can lead to various symptoms, such as strong cravings, anxiety, irritability, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, depressed mood, frustration, anger, increased hunger, insomnia, constipation or diarrhea. Studies have shown that long-term e-cigarette smokers are exposed to as much nicotine as individuals who smoke regular cigarettes.”
To learn more about the health effects of vaping, click here.
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