'Selfie' while driving is now punishable

Saudi Arabia has warned motorists they would be punished with a SR300 fine (Dh300) if they are caught photographing themselves while driving.

“Those caught taking selfie while driving will be fined between SR150 and SR300…the penalty also affects all drivers who use their mobile phones,” the Saudi traffic department said in a statement carried by local newspapers.

It said motorists would be fined in case they use their mobile phone while driving or when they stop at traffic signals.

Sada newspaper cited a police report showing nearly 78 per cent of the accidents in Saudi Arabia last year were caused by the drivers’ lack of concentration on the road due to the use of mobile phones and other reasons.