Sat Nav/Phone: Is it legal to have TV on the front screen?

[GDB]

Seen a new threads about connecting up the NAV screen in the dash to take a video source, but is it legal to use while driving?

I don't expect to be actually watching a film or writing an email whilst driving, but I wanted to check before going any further.

[Rossi-fan]

I would think if you were seen with a TV channel on, they would throw the book at you. Do they actually work when the car is switched on???

[gdphillips]

a.n.p.r its a sceen in veiw of the driver and thats in a police car with the video unit in the windscreen arc.... i would think as long as its not in direct veiw of the driver i would think it would be ok much the same as sat nav stuck to the windscreen......my tv is linked to the rear screens in my 850....but its not it my veiw when driving....below the heater controls but not got the xc90 yet but its going to be the same in that i hope....

[BestGear]

Thats a tough one but I guess it would be illegal to watch while in motion.

I am not sure if you could argue the "in direct line of view of the driver"....

My installation has a manual switch, not linked to the handbrake as in some installs.

As said above, what the difference with a satnav or indeed like a BMW iDrive - colour screen and a TV..? I supose TV may get you hooked if Corrie comes on...

David

[Beavis]

might be hard to explain away if you're the only one in the car and Toy Story is thumping out....

[Ronnie bb]

The answer you are looking for is NO!!
If you are driving the vehicle and are able to view the screen playing a movie or tv programme etc you will commit the offence of... Not being in proper control of a motor vehicle (road traffic act 1988).
You may get issued a Fixed penalty notice of 3 points and £60, however if there are other factors I.e you are involved in a traffic collision then your looking at undue care and then it's gonna be a bigger hit with points and fine!!
Alot of systems have a safety feature that stop the screen playing programmes unless the hand brake is on.
The bottom line is this...... Is it worth the risk of having a police officer knock at the door to tell your wife/ kids etc that daddy is not coming home because he was watching tv while driving??
Harsh I know but that is the reality as I know only too well.
Regards.

[deathrider311271]

yes its illegal, law states: front screen must automatically stop functioning when the vehicle is in motion.

so illegal

[Beavis]

Originally Posted by deathrider311271

yes its illegal, law states: front screen must automatically stop functioning when the vehicle is in motion.

so illegal

how do these double din units from Halford with pc/dvd/sat nav get away with being sold if its illegal just to have it on? can't believe they sell them expecting people to sit and watch tele in the car without it moving.

[GMad]

Originally Posted by StuT4

how do these double din units from Halford with pc/dvd/sat nav get away with being sold if its illegal just to have it on? can't believe they sell them expecting people to sit and watch tele in the car without it moving.

It's only illegal to use them, not sell them..

[deathrider311271]

As above