Police have warned drivers that use mobile phones as satnavs.

In April 2017 new penalties were introduced and the police are warning drivers that the new law and penalties also include drivers that use their mobile phones as satnavs.

Many people use their smartphone devices for satellite navigation, but this could land them with a hefty fine if they do not follow strict laws. 

Whilst you can use your phone as a satnav, you must programme it before you start your car and not touch or re-programme while the car is in motion. Your phone should be also be mounted into a hands free holder if it is to be used in your car for navigation.

The maximum penalty has doubled to a £200 fine and six points, or even disqualification.

A spokesman for the National Police Chiefs’ Council said: “If an officer determines that a driver using their satnav hindered their ability to control the car, the driver could face prosecution.”

In 2014, officers spotted 5,094 people using a mobile phone behind the wheel across the county and the amount increased to 5,702 offences in 2015.

It is illegal to use your phone under any circumstances while behind the wheel, except in a real emergency and only to dial 999.