While the research shows that the traditional A-Z road map may no longer have a place in the nation’s glove boxes, some smartphone users also felt that satnavs were a thing of the past, with 32% saying they thought that they were out-dated.
Almost half (49%) said they used a smartphone for navigation as it was easy to use and accessible. However, using a smartphone with an app like Google or Apple maps while driving could land you in trouble with your insurer and the police.
In addition to being a hazard on the road, using a hand-held device while driving, including using a mobile phone to follow a map, could result in a maximum fine of up to £1,000 as well as three points on your licence, or even a driving ban.
Having a CU80 endorsement (breach of requirements as to control of the vehicle, including using a mobile phone while driving) can have a serious impact on your insurance premiums.
In one example, Gocompare.com found that a CU80 conviction and three points could increase car insurance premiums by as much as 24%.
Gocompare.com’s survey also revealed that 14% of drivers admitted to changing their satnav settings or destination while driving.
Although the use of handheld devices as sat navs is permitted, if police think you are distracted and not in control of your vehicle then you could still get stopped and penalised.
Almost two thirds (63%) of drivers said they preferred to use their smartphones because they carry it with them regularly.
