More than 1,000 motorists were fined for being distracted while behind the wheel in Ras Al Khaimah last year, police have said.
The dangerous loss of concentration on the emirate's roads led to 136 accidents, new figures have revealed.
Colonel Ahmed Al Naqbi, director of the traffic and patrols department, at RAK Police, said 1,029 violations - including for using a mobile phone and even eating while driving - were recorded in 2018.
“Not paying attention to the road while driving can lead to sudden swerving, failure to leave a safe distance between vehicles and lack of lane discipline which can cause accidents,” said Col Al Naqbi.
“Using the phone, eating, adjusting the radio station or even fixing your clothes while driving can lead to sudden swerving or hitting the vehicle in front or on the side.
“Being distracted for only a few seconds while driving can lead to serious accidents.”
He said that male motorists aged between 20 and 25 were the most to commit such violations, including use their phones while driving.
“Distracted driving is considered one of the most serious traffic violations that can lead to tragic accidents, injuries and deaths among motorists, passengers and road users,” said Col Al Naqbi.
Only last month, Abu Dhabi police warned motorists against playing games on their mobile phones while driving.
