Brits issued warning ahead of ‘Armageddon’ emergency alert: Avoid driving at 3 PM

The government warned they will be trialling an emergency alarm at 15:00 BST this Sunday, 23 April, on smartphones across the UK. There is a growing concern the alert will have serious consequences if it distracts drivers on the roads.

The country-wide ‘Armageddon alert’ is expected to appear on home screens, accompanied by a loud siren and vibration for around 10 seconds.

According to UK law, motorists should have complete control of their vehicles at all times while on the road. Research shows using a phone behind the wheel makes drivers four times more likely to crash, so holding or using any mobile phone or device whilst driving is illegal.

Motoring experts warn that reacting to the ‘Armageddon alert’ could land them in trouble with the law resulting in hefty fines.

Meanwhile, another urgent warning has been issued ahead of King Charles coronation.

Motorists will be distracted by the alert

Motoring experts from Quotezone.co.ukhave urged Brits to be careful and stay safe if they’re driving on Sunday afternoon. The government is planning to launch its country-wide ‘Armageddon alert’ at 15:00 BST this Sunday, 23 April, with the message expected to appear on your smartphone’s home screens, accompanied by a loud siren and vibration for around 10 seconds.

British motorists who will be behind the wheel at the time risk getting distracted while reaching for their devices in a bid to turn off the alarm.

Research shows using a phone behind the wheel makes you four times more likely to crash. It is also illegal to use your phone while driving.

Motorists who are distracted by the alarm could therefore be punished for careless driving if they are found not in complete control of their vehicle, which carries an unlimited fine, up to 9 points and a driving disqualification.

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What risks are UK motorists facing?

Experts encourage anyone who’ll be driving on Sunday afternoon to be aware that reacting to the message could make them break the law and end up with a fine to pay.

People risk facing up to 9 points on their license and a £200 out of pocket, and anyone who has passed their driving test in the last two years will be stripped of their license.

Rule 148 of the Highway code also states safe driving needs concentration without distraction to avoid potentially endangering anyone.

Greg Wilson, CEO and Founder at Quotezone.co.uk said:

Drivers need to be wary of the emergency alert while on the road. Anyone who receives it while driving should continue to drive and not respond to the noise or attempt to pick up their mobile phone.

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Sources used:

- Birmingham Live: 'Warning issued to anybody planning to drive at 3pm on Sunday afternoon'