| bus driver caught smoking while driving Posted by infoman at 11:01, 16th October 2025 |     |
https://somersetdaily.co.uk/bus-driver-caught-smoking-while-driving-passenger-bus-in-bristol/#:~:text=A%20Bristol%20bus%20driver%20has%20been%20filmed%20smoking,driver%20ignored%20requests%20to%20put%20out%20the%20cigarette.
A Bristol bus driver has been filmed smoking a cigarette while driving, alarming passengers onboard. The incident was recorded by Riley Whitman, a passenger on the X91 service operated by The Big Lemon bus company, who claims the driver ignored requests to put out the cigarette.
The event took place on Saturday, October 11, around 2:20 pm near Bristol city centre as the bus traveled between Bristol and Ubley in the Chew Valley. Mr. Whitman described the situation as “extremely distressing,” condemning the driver’s actions as both unsafe and unacceptable.
The video clearly shows the driver behind the wheel holding a lit cigarette with one hand while the bus is in motion. The background noise and view through the windscreen confirm the vehicle was not stationary. A fire extinguisher can also be seen in the footage.
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The Big Lemon has confirmed the driver has been identified and stated an internal investigation is underway following company protocols.
The X91 route runs from Bristol city centre to Temple Meads Station, through Bedminster, Hartcliffe, Chew Magna, Bishop Sutton, East Harptree, and Ubley. The Big Lemon’s buses are recognizable by their bright yellow or white colouring.
According to UK law, smoking is prohibited on public transport vehicles and work vehicles carrying more than one person at any time, according to the Health Act 2006 and the Children and Families Act 2014. Buses must remain smoke-free at all times, including when not carrying passengers, and display no-smoking signs. Drivers caught smoking may face fines and disciplinary measures.
Furthermore, the Highway Code advises against smoking while driving due to the distraction it can cause, emphasizing the importance of drivers’ full attention on the road.
