Mobile phone paragraph: does the ban also apply to smartwatches?

Created: 06/16/2022, 08:20

By: Simon Mones

It is clear that the mobile phone must not be used while driving.

But what about smartwatches?

Munich – If you drive a car, you should concentrate on the road.

The use of mobile phones or tablets while driving is therefore prohibited.

Nevertheless, every third person uses it and only very few are actually caught doing so.

A new speed camera currently being tested in Rhineland-Palatinate could soon change that.

But what about smartwatches?

When it comes to using smartwatches, the legal situation is not entirely clear, which is why ADAC club lawyer Klaus Heimgärtner has taken on the issue.

Basically, a smartwatch is an electronic device whose use is prohibited by the so-called "mobile phone paragraph" (§ 23 StVO).

However, the smart watches are worn on the wrist and do not have to be picked up, as required by law.

The smartphone has no place at the wheel.

But what about the smartwatch?

(Iconic image) © Panthermedia/Imago

Mobile phone paragraph: does the ban also apply to smartwatches?

Accordingly, some drivers may assume that sending text messages via the smartwatch is not a problem.

But even the intelligent watches may only be used to a limited extent.

And then only if the gaze is adapted to the "road, traffic, visibility and weather conditions".

However, there is no fixed time limit for this, explains Heimgärtner.

However, the ADAC lawyer makes it clear: If you look at the smartwatch for just a second at a speed of 200, you have already covered a distance of 50 meters in this time.

Mobile phone paragraph: Violation will result in high fines

Accordingly, it is advisable to refrain from using a smartwatch while driving, even if many drivers find it difficult.

The danger is just too great, after all you drive several meters in blind flight.

The same applies, of course, to mobile phone use.

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In addition, it is expensive if you are caught violating the “mobile phone paragraph”: a fine of 100 euros and a point in Flensburg are at least certain.

Depending on the severity of the offense, it can even become significantly more expensive.

And there are also drastic penalties abroad.