![stay-safe-on-the-road-saudi-arabia-issues-warning-on-15-surge-in-holiday-road-accidents-saudi](/img/news/15078/stay-safe-on-the-road-saudi-arabia-issues-warning-on-15-surge-in-holiday-road-accidents_0_23-11-20-08-11-35.jpg)
Saudi Arabia is cautioning motorists about a 15% increase in road accidents during holidays, especially with a nine-day school break currently in progress.
The General Authority for Roads has released a safety advisory, emphasizing crucial measures for drivers:
. Buckle Up: Ensure seat belts are fastened for both the driver and passengers.
. Observe Speed Limits: Avoid exceeding speed limits for safer journeys.
. Ditch the Distraction: Say no to mobile phone use while driving to stay focused on the road.
. Check Your Ride: Regularly inspect car tires and other components to ensure optimal safety.
. Get Adequate Rest: Before embarking on your journey, ensure you've had enough sleep for alert driving.
. Rainy Weather Caution: Avoid driving in the rain to minimize risks.
. Secure Little Passengers: Safely place children in designated seats during the journey.
In August last year, the Saudi Cabinet established the General Authority for Roads to enhance road safety, setting a strategy to reduce traffic fatalities to less than five deaths per 100,000 people by 2030.
Saudi authorities have increased penalties for traffic offenses to curb road accidents, resulting in a significant 35% decline in traffic deaths over the past five years, starting from 2016.
Despite these efforts, recent months have seen tragic incidents, emphasizing the need for continued caution on the roads.