HSE Road Safety Update: Let’s end distracted driving at KAUST

At KAUST, safe driving is a shared responsibility — whether you’re behind the wheel of a vehicle or using a micromobility device. Staying focused on the road can prevent serious road traffic accidents. Distracted driving is not only dangerous, but it may also be considered a careless driving offense under the KAUST Road Safety Code. Activities that take your attention off the road can lead to serious, yet entirely preventable, accidents. Let’s keep our roads safe by staying alert and driving responsibly.

What you can do

Drivers

• All drivers, including micromobility users, must not use handheld devices while driving unless they are completely hands-free or securely mounted.
• Complete tasks like adjusting mirrors or checking messages before you drive.
• While brief adjustments to GPS, radio, or air conditioning are common driving actions, drivers should still aim to minimize these interactions whenever possible to maintain full attention on the road.
• Try using apps or settings that minimize distractions while driving.

Passengers

• If you notice the driver is distracted, speak up and remind them to keep their attention on the road to ensure everyone’s safety.
• Offer to assist with navigation or other tasks.

Parents

• Talk to young drivers about the dangers of distracted driving.
• Be a role model: attention on the road, hands on the wheel.

Watch this short video to learn why distracted driving is dangerous — and what you can do to prevent it.

Keeping KAUST Safe means no distracted driving.  Thank you for playing your part! For questions or support, contact hse@kaust.edu.sa.