The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has reminded motorists that using mobile phones while driving is not about incurring a fine of QR500, but a matter of people’s lives.

The authorities concerned are currently conducting a campaign to book motorists on the spot if they are found using mobile devices while at the wheel.

In a post on its Facebook page, the MoI said many motorists use mobile phones while driving for making calls, texting, browsing social media and for playing games such as Pokémon Go. “The end result will be disastrous,” the ministry stressed, adding: "Don't text and drive. Arrive alive."

Global statistics have proven that the most serious accidents occur in a fraction of a second due to loss of concentration, the MoI points out. “Drivers lose their concentration at the moment of using the mobile phone while driving. Many lives were lost and some exposed to total or partial disability due to the use of phones while driving,” it added.

Several studies have confirmed the seriousness of using a mobile phone while at the wheel, the ministry further notes. One of the studies suggested that the dangers of using a phone while driving are no less than the risks of driving under the influence of alcohol.

“Hence, make it a habit not to use the mobile while driving. In case you are compelled to make or receive an emergency call, stop your vehicle at the nearest available parking space and make/attend the call,” the MoI advised. “Remember - it's not about fine of QR500, but (about) your life as well as others’.”