As a brand that’s proudly helped millions of adult smokers make the switch to something 92% less harmful than cigarettes, Riot exists to empower change — not create chaos.
So let’s talk about something you might not have thought too hard about… vaping behind the wheel.
Over the Easter weekend, a massive 19.8 million cars are expected to hit UK roads. It’s one of the busiest travel periods of the year — families on the move, road trips in full swing, and traffic building up fast. But while you’re thinking about where to stash the Easter eggs or whether to bring that extra hoodie, there's one thing you might be forgetting:
Vaping in the car can get you fined.
Big time.
No, Vaping While Driving Isn’t Technically Illegal…
But that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free.
The law might not specifically call out vaping while driving (yet), but the police can and will come down hard if it causes a distraction. And guess what? Blowing out a big cloud of your favourite Riot flavour can impair visibility — and that’s where things get sticky.
According to Surrey and Sussex Police, if your vision is compromised — even for a moment — you could cause a crash, or worse, a fatality. That makes vaping behind the wheel no different to any other distraction: fiddling with the sat-nav, scrolling a playlist, or smashing through a packet of crisps.
And if an officer deems you not in proper control of your vehicle, you could be looking at:
- Fines of up to £5,000
- 9 points on your licence
- A hefty insurance nightmare
-
Potential prosecution for careless driving
More People Are Doing It Than You Think
In a poll by IAM RoadSmart, the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, 57% of smokers admitted they’ve vaped or smoked behind the wheel.
That includes 16% who say they “only do it on long journeys.” Sound familiar?
We get it. Long drives can test anyone’s patience, especially if you’re trying to stay off the ciggies and you're missing that nicotine fix. But there are better, safer ways to manage the urge — and we’re here to help you make the right call.
Vaping Is Safer Than Smoking — But Not When It’s a Distraction
We’re not here to villainise vaping. That’s not what we do — quite the opposite. Riot has been at the forefront of vaping innovation, pushing boundaries, and giving adult smokers a bold, satisfying alternative to harmful tobacco.
But we are here to talk about responsibility.
Just because vaping doesn’t stink out your car or stain your teeth doesn’t mean it can’t be a distraction. Clouding up the windscreen, even briefly, is a risk you don’t need to take. And in the eyes of the law — and your insurer — it could cost you dearly.
As David Donaghy, Riot’s own spokesperson, put it:
“It’s understandable a long drive over Easter weekend will tempt drivers to have a sneaky puff, but we recommend planning regular stops at service stations or another safe location, or wait until you’ve arrived at your destination before doing so.”
It’s solid advice — and it’s advice backed by facts.
Most Drivers Have No Clue About the Consequences
Recent research paints a worrying picture:
- 50% of drivers don’t think there are any consequences to vaping while driving
- 39% don’t believe they can be fined for it
- 8.4% (more than 3.5 million drivers) still smoke while driving, despite knowing the risks
- 6.8% (that’s 2.8 million people!) continue to vape behind the wheel, fully aware they could be fined
That’s not ignorance — that’s complacency. And it’s something we need to tackle head-on.
So What Should You Do Instead?
You don’t have to white-knuckle your way through the M25 in nicotine withdrawal. But you do have to be smart. Riot’s here to keep you on the straight and narrow — without compromising your quit journey.
Here’s our no-fluff Riot Roadmap for vaping safely on the move:
1. Plan Vape Stops
Just like you’d stop for a coffee, a stretch, or to scream into the void at another motorway delay, factor in vape breaks. Service stations, lay-bys, scenic stops — they’re your friend. Vape legally and safely, then hit the road refreshed.
2. Out of Sight, Out of Mind
Keep your vape gear in the boot. Seriously. It’ll stop you reaching for it while driving and help avoid any temptation when you're stuck in traffic.
3. Use Less Vapour-Heavy Devices
If you must vape during a stop, consider using a low vapour device. Riot’s own Connex system is sleek, compact, and far less cloud-chucking than some mod-style setups. Ideal for keeping things discreet and safe.
4. Open the Windows
Ventilation matters. If you’re sat in your car vaping while parked, crack the window wide. It’ll help avoid any lingering vapour clouds that could cause issues when you get moving again.
5. Consider Nicotine Alternatives
Going on a mega road trip? Pick up some nicotine patches or gum from your local pharmacy before you set off. They can help take the edge off cravings without creating distractions behind the wheel.
It’s About More Than Fines — It’s About Accountability
The law might lag behind technology sometimes, but that doesn’t mean you can switch off your brain. Vaping while driving isn’t about whether it’s “allowed” — it’s about whether it’s safe.
Riot is proud to be a disruptive brand. We challenge the status quo. We push for smarter alternatives and a smoke-free future. But that future only works if we do it the right way.
That means vaping responsibly, legally, and with a full understanding of what’s at stake.
So this Easter — or any time you hit the road — do yourself (and everyone else) a favour:
Don’t vape and drive.
Simple.
Want to Know More About Vaping and the Law?
Riot’s here to educate, empower, and support adult smokers looking for a way out. Keep an eye on our blog and social channels for updates on vaping legislation, tips for switching, and news from across the UK’s vape scene.
And if you’ve got a question, drop us a message. No bots, no bull — just real answers, from a real team who care.
