Can I use my mobile phone as a navigation device in the car?
May 13, 2022 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Hildegard Falk
Dear traffic lawyer,
My name is Jessica Wunderlich and I have a question regarding the use of my mobile phone as a navigation device in the car. Currently, I regularly use my phone to navigate during car journeys, as I do not have a separate navigation device. However, I have concerns about whether this is legally allowed and if I could potentially risk a fine or even points on my driving record in Flensburg.
So, my current situation is that I use my phone as a navigation device, but I am unsure if this is permissible. I do not want to break any laws and get into trouble with the authorities. Therefore, I am looking for possible solutions to my dilemma.
My concerns mainly revolve around whether using the phone as a navigation device is considered "use of an electronic device while driving" and what consequences this could entail. I would like to know if there is perhaps a legal way to use my phone as a navigation device without violating traffic rules.
Therefore, my specific question to you is: Am I allowed to use my phone as a navigation device in the car without facing legal problems? Are there any specific requirements or restrictions that I should be aware of to stay on the safe side?
I thank you in advance for your support and advice on this matter.
Sincerely,
Jessica Wunderlich
Dear Mrs. Wunderlich,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding using your mobile phone as a navigation device in the car. It is understandable that you are concerned about the legal situation and want to avoid any possible consequences. I am happy to provide you with a detailed response to your questions.
In general, using a mobile phone as a navigation device in the car is allowed as long as you follow certain rules. According to § 23 Abs. 1a of the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), it is permitted to use electronic devices such as mobile phones or navigation devices while driving, as long as you do not hold or touch the device. This means that you must attach the device to a mount in the car so that you can have it in view at all times without having to hold it.
It is important that you operate the navigation device in the car in a way that allows you to still focus on the road. This means that you should not program or adjust settings on the device while driving, but rather do so before starting your journey. Additionally, you should not listen to the navigation device's instructions through headphones or earplugs, as this would also be a violation of traffic rules.
If you follow these rules and use your mobile phone as a navigation device in the car without holding it, you should not encounter any legal issues. However, it is important that you adhere to the regulations to avoid accidents and fines.
If you have any further questions or need more information, please feel free to contact me. I hope that this information has been helpful to you and wish you a safe journey with your navigation device.
Best regards,
Hildegard Falk
Traffic Law Attorney
