LEBANON – As road accidents continue to rise on Lebanese roads, social media initiatives are increasingly highlighting one of the most dangerous driving behaviors: using a mobile phone while driving.
Among these initiatives is the page “Shilo Men Idak,” which documents this behavior to raise public awareness and encourage a cultural shift that prioritizes road safety.
In an exclusive interview with Enmaeya, the "Shilo Men Idal" team explains that its work focuses on documenting a longstanding phenomenon on Lebanese roads: drivers using mobile phones while behind the wheel.
According to the team, the practice is no longer confined to sending quick messages, but has expanded to include scrolling through social media, checking work messages, and even carrying out personal routines such as applying makeup while driving.
Not only does this exacerbate traffic congestion, but it also poses a direct threat to the lives of both drivers and pedestrians.
Changing the Driving Culture
“Shilo Men Idak” aims to create a long-term cultural shift that keeps mobile phones out of drivers’ reach. It believes that documenting these daily “spotted moments” helps reveal the scale of the problem and raise awareness of its risks, contributing to fewer accidents and saved lives.
The initiative also clarifies that its goal is not to expose individuals, but to highlight the behavior itself and encourage society to rethink driving habits.
It adds that it remains anonymous for safety reasons, especially given occasional aggressive reactions on the roads. The team also emphasizes that they do not seek media exposure, but rather focus on the main objective: reducing the use of mobile phones while driving.
Road Accident Figures in Lebanon
According to the latest data from YASA (Youth Association for Social Awareness), road accidents in Lebanon continue to show high numbers:
In 2024, around 2,365 accidents were recorded, resulting in approximately 443 deaths and more than 2,600 injuries.
In the first months of 2025, around 876 accidents were recorded, leading to 162 deaths and more than 1,000 injuries.
These figures demonstrate a stark reality: Lebanon’s road safety situation continues to pose a serious public concern.
According to YASA, speeding, mobile phone use while driving, and poor infrastructure continue to be leading causes of road accidents, with fatalities occurring each year as a result.
In this context, awareness campaigns are gaining importance, seeking to change driver behavior and reshape road culture in Lebanon for greater safety.
