CAR PLAY CRACKDOWN New iOS Update Could Land Drivers in Hot Water

Apple’s latest iOS update for CarPlay might seem like a dream for tech-loving drivers. But beware—Moremore features mean more distractions. Car maintenance experts, warn this update could push you Overover the legal line, risking fines and penalty points for distracted driving.

Why The Update Could Cost You £200 and Six Points

The Highway Code is clear: using a handheld phone, satnav, or any device while driving is illegal—even if you’re stopped at traffic lights or stuck in jammed traffic. Apple CarPlay aims to make phone use safer by integrating controls into your car’s screen. But Fixter stresses that touching or looking at your screen while driving could still land you a £200 fine and six penalty points.

• The new iOS update adds slick features like music and podcast controls, real-time notifications, message previews, and customised dashboards.
• Drivers can now switch playlists, reply to messages, and personalise their screen layout with ease.
• But these tempting upgrades could make you glance or tap the screen too often—taking your eyes off the road.
• Police can stop and fine anyone they suspect isn’t fully in control—even if the car is stationary.

8 Rules to Stay Legal and Safe on CarPlay

1. Keep hands off: No scrolling, typing, or tapping while driving. Even switching a song can be illegal.
2. No distractions at lights: It might seem harmless at red lights, but interacting with your phone or screen is still against the Lawlaw.
3. Hands-free only: Don’t hold your phone to answer calls. Use hands-free setup to stay safe and legal.
4. Pre-plan: Set navigation and playlists before you hit the road.
5. Let Siri handle it: Use voice commands to reply to messages or change music without touching the screen.
6. Know the Stakesstakes: Illegal phone or screen use means £200 fines, six points, and new drivers risk losing their licence. Lorry and bus drivers can face fines up to £2,500.
7. Be aware: Rules apply even if your engine is off in Startstart-stop mode or if you’re supervising a learner driver.
8. Hands-free isn’t foolproof: Police can still stop you if they think distraction affects your control, even with Bluetooth or dash mounts.

Setup Before You Drive

“CarPlay is brilliant, but safety and legality come first,”  “If police think you’re distracted by your in-car system, you could face serious consequences. The golden rule is simple: set it up before you set off, and don’t let it distract you on the road.”