Drivers risk £200 fine for pressing this button behind the wheel in little-known rule

Motorists could be fined for pressing a button under a little-known driving rule (Image: Getty)

Leading experts say motorists could be fined up to £200 for pressing a simple button while driving. 

Modern smartphone technology means road users no longer need to splash out on an expensive sat nav device with mobile phone maps just as intuitive.

Smartphone services such as Google Maps even have a satnav feature which can be used hands-free in vehicles. 

Although easy to use, road users could be caught out by major penalties for simply touching a device behind the wheel. 

Tougher mobile phone rules mean just hitting one button on screen or zooming out on a map could be enough to land drivers in serious trouble.

Phones can be used as sat navs but should not be used while travelling (Image: Getty)

Yell explained: “Using your phone as a satnav while driving is something most of us do without thinking twice – whether it’s mounted on the dashboard or propped up in a holder. 

“But here’s the catch: even though it seems harmless, interacting with your phone while driving could actually be breaking the law. 

“In the UK, it’s illegal to touch your phone while driving, even if you're just adjusting your route, changing the volume, or dismissing a notification. This rule applies even if your phone is safely secured in a holder. 

“The only way it’s legal to use your phone for navigation is if you’ve already set everything up before hitting the road – and don’t touch it again during your drive.”

Motorists are likely to get up to six penalty points on a driving licence for using a phone while driving, 

This could be a hefty blow to newly qualified road users with six points the threshold to have a licence revoked up to two years after passing. 

GOV.UK warned the rules still applied if individuals were stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic. 

Motorists are likely to get up to six penalty points on a driving licence for using a phone while driving, (Image: GETTY )

Yell added: “Getting caught handling your phone behind the wheel can lead to six penalty points, a £200 fine, and even a driving ban in some cases. 

“So, to stay on the right side of the law, always plan your route before you start and use voice commands or your car’s built-in system to make adjustments safely. 

“After all, a few extra minutes of planning can save you a lot of trouble – and keep you focused on the road.”