Memorial Day Warning: Don’t Vape and Drive
Drive, Don’t Vape: Memorial Day Weekend Road Safety Reminder
According to new research from vape experts Provape, drivers could face hefty fines if caught using e-cigarettes behind the wheel due to existing road safety laws.
With Memorial Day Weekend approaching, drivers are urged to stay extra vigilant and avoid distractions like vaping behind the wheel.
Although there’s no specific U.S. federal law banning vaping while driving, the physical distraction of handling a vape device and the potential visibility obstruction from vapor clouds could give police officers grounds to issue penalties under current legislation.
The visible vapor from e-cigarettes can momentarily obstruct a driver’s vision, especially in enclosed vehicles that lack adequate ventilation.
Many drivers remain unaware that vaping while driving could be classified as distracted driving, carrying penalties of up to $2,500 and possible jail time. The penalties depend on the state and how many previous offenses you have committed.
Drivers also face an avoidable risk with their car insurance coverage. Car insurance companies may reject any claims resulting from vaping while driving.
A less obvious risk is that e-cigarette vapor leaves a residue on windshields over time, creating a film that can impair visibility, particularly in low light or bright sunlight. Drivers who vape in their car need to use a proper automotive glass cleaner weekly to help maintain clear visibility.
Joe Tucker, Chief Operating Officer at Provape, commented: “Vaping while driving isn’t specifically banned by law, but it falls under distracted driving regulations if it impacts your ability to control the vehicle safely.
“Police officers enforce road safety based on driver behavior rather than specific activities. Officers don’t need a law explicitly mentioning vaping to issue penalties if they see it affecting your driving.
“Reaching for your device, pressing buttons, and the act of vaping itself all take your attention from the road. Drivers should pull over safely if they need to vape rather than risking both road safety and potential fines.
“Many vapers develop habits of using their devices almost subconsciously and might not even realize they’re creating a hazardous situation.”
According to CDC data, the percentage of adults who used electronic cigarettes increased from 4.5% in 2019 to 6.5% in 2023.
