Update: The article was originally written prior to finding out an exception in the law. It is in fact, okay to use Apple Pay or other forms of contactless payment through drive-thrus in the UK. Source: gov.uk
As new Highway Code rules were released last month, it is now illegal for drivers in the UK to touch their phone while driving. With this, it is now illegal for fast food customers to use Apple Pay while purchasing food in drive-thrus. Now, a warning is out for customers of McDonald’s, KFC, Greggs, Costa, and Burger King.
For those unfamiliar with Apple Pay, it’s a way to pay using your iPhone, Mac, or Apple Watch. At retail stores and restaurants, you can use Apple Pay by simply tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch to the checkout terminal. Your information is stored in your Apple Wallet and works with debit cards, credit cards, rewards cards, and more.
UK drivers could receive a £200 fine and 6 points on their driver’s license for using their phone while driving; even at drive-thrus. An RAC spokesperson told BirminghamLive:
Every driver should always ensure they are parked and have their engine switched off before using a handheld phone – anything else could land them in trouble, even if they are in a car park, drive-thru or petrol forecourt.
Additionally, a Twitter user asked a police account to specify if using Apple Pay in a drive-thru was illegal. The account went on to clarify that if your engine is off and the handbrake is applied, it is alright; if not, it’s against the law.
Do you use Apple Pay in drive-thrus? Is paying with Apple Pay in drive-thrus illegal where you live? Let us know in the comments.
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