Vaping is becoming more popular, especially in cars. But is it safe and legal to vape while driving in Arkansas? This guide explains the rules, safety tips, and best practices you need to know before you take a puff behind the wheel.
Is It Legal to Vape While Driving?
General Driving Laws
There’s no law in most places that specifically bans vaping while driving. Still, vaping can be seen as careless driving if it causes a distraction.
For instance, if the vape clouds fill your windshield or make you take your hands off the wheel, you could get a fine, lose license points, or even face legal trouble.
Driving with Minors in the Car
Many places are strict about vaping with kids in the car:
In Arkansas, it’s illegal to smoke or vape in a vehicle when a child under 14 is inside. That’s a direct smoking ban that includes vaping. Even in places without such laws, vaping around kids can still be seen as harmful or illegal.
Commercial Drivers
If you drive for a job—like a trucker or bus driver—you might face extra rules. Employers or federal laws may forbid vaping on the job if it’s unsafe or distracting.
Safety Considerations
Impaired Visibility
Vape clouds can fog up your windshield or mirror, making it harder to see the road. That’s risky, especially in traffic or bad weather.
Distraction Risk
Handling your vape—adjusting settings, refilling, or even lighting it—takes attention away from driving. Just like eating or texting, it can cause accidents.
Device Malfunction
Vape pens and mods can leak hot e-liquid or even overheat. If that happens while driving, it can shock or distract you at a dangerous moment.
Tips for Vaping Responsibly While Driving
- Use a disposable vape to avoid refilling or fiddling with settings.
- Crack open a window to clear out vapor fast.
- Don’t chain vape—it creates thick clouds that block your view.
- Never vape with children in the car, even if the law doesn’t say so.
While vaping in a car isn’t always illegal in Arkansas, it can easily turn into unsafe or careless driving. If you drive with kids, you must follow the state’s ban.
And whether the law says so or not, it’s safest to vape before or after your trip. That way, you avoid distractions, keep visibility clear, and protect everyone in the car.
