LEARNING MODULE

1st Semester 2020-21

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT & ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION W/

DRIVING

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement

For the Subject of CDI 4 (Traffic Management & Accident Investigation
w/ Driving)
Saint Joseph College
College of Criminology
Maasin City Southern Leyte

Submitted by:

______________________________________
Student

Submitted to:

______________________________________

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 Saint Joseph College
College of Criminology
Maasin City
Course Syllabus
1st Semester 2020-21

I: Course Information
Course Number: CDI 4
Course Title : Traffic Management and Accident Investigation w/ Driving
Course Units : 3 units
II: Course Description
The course deals with the need for traffic operation and management; the areas of application;
the methods of traffic control and the application of learning to traffic accident investigation. This course
too discusses the specific responsibilities in traffic operation and management and the background of
traffic law enforcement
Further, this instructional material is designed for B.S Criminology Instructors and Students and
Traffic Law Enforcers. The contents of this book are also applicable to those aiming to broaden their
knowledge in Traffic Management and Traffic Accident Investigation. And finally, this material could be
an ideal handbook for those involved in motor vehicle driving profession such as driving instructors and
student drivers

III: Course Objectives

At the end of the course, the learner shall be able to:
1. Explain briefly the development of transportation
2. Distinguish the various areas of traffic operation and management
3. Distinguish the various aspects of traffic direction and control
4. Identify the different traffic control devices and aids
5. Apply the concept of traffic law management
6. Integrate the concept of traffic management with traffic accident investigation
7. Discuss the chronological steps of traffic accident investigation
8. Appreciate the importance of traffic education, engineering, and enforcement as the real need
to reduce traffic accidents
9. Accept his responsibility as part of the traffic system
10. Show sensitivity to traffic needs and other traffic-related problems
11. Display traffic safety consciousness
12. Obey traffic rules, and regulations
13. Recognize the importance of the different traffic control devices and aids
14. Demonstrate the proper way of directing and controlling traffic
15. Illustrate the different control devices and aids

IV: Course Requirement

Term Examination
Pre-mid exam 20%
Mid Term exam 20%
Quizies 20%
Class Participation 40%
Driving activities hands-on
Reporting

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 Total 100%
Mid Grade

Term Examination
Pre-final Exam 20%
Final Exam 20%
Quiz 20%
Class Participation 40%
Driving activities hands-on
Oral participation
Total 100%
Tentative Final Rating
Final Rating/Grade = Tentative Final times two(2) + Mid Grade
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V: Course Contents
Pre-mid Term Period
1. Manpower, Animal Power and Wind Power
2. Roads and Vehicles History
3. Fundamentals of Traffic Management
4. The Pillars of Traffic
5. Traffic Safety Education
Mid term Term Period
6. Traffic Laws, Rules and Regulations and Other Related Statutes
7. Important Provisions of R.A 4136
8. Registration of Motor Vehicles
9. Driver’s Licenses
10. General Rules of Road Use and Conduct
Pre-final Term period
1. Fundamentals of Traffic Control
2. Traffic Signs
3. Traffic Signal Lights
4. Pavement Markings and Markers
5. Traffic Islands
6. Traffic Law Enforcement
7. Traffic Direction and Control
8. Traffic Patrol
Final Term Period
9. Traffic Accident Investigation
10. Hit-and-Run Investigation
11. Skidmarks as a Tool in Traffic Accident Investigation
12. The Ten(10) Commandments of Traffic
13. Liabilities Arising from Vehicular Accidents
VI: Reference
Prof. Darlito Bernard G. Delizo, Traffic Management and Accident Investigation an Instructional
Handbook

Prepared by:
Joselito M. Velasquez R.C, MCJ

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 TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION w/ Driving
Introduction

Historical Background of Land Transportation

During the course of the 19th and 20th centuries, people’s everyday lives have been
changed to extraordinary degrees and in previously unimagined ways by technological
advances. Achievements in trasportation, communications and the conversion of energy have
affected a moern society characterized by great speed. Medical knowledge has provided longer
and healthier human life spans. Electronics, especially computer technology, is not only in itself
a huge field, but makes possible further advances in all other areas of technology. The use and
improvement of tens of thousands of materials in all forms of industry have made for better
standards of living and much more leisure time.
From the time of Galileo to the present days, science and technology played a vital role
in shaping this word. While there is rapid urbanization, technical and industrial modernization
takes place in every facet of human lives.
In the field of land transportation, great men in science and technology provided wide
range of knowledge in the development of transportation facilities. Entienne Lenoir, initiated
the development of the internal combustion engine which paved way for the development of
the automibile. The invention of motor vehicle enabled man to go places with much ease than
when he was using animal-drawn carriages. Henry Ford’s assembly-line process further
transformed society by puting the public on wheels and was adopted for the mass production
of many other goods. The rapid development of computers in the mid-20th has also
revolutionized motor vehicle technology like those found in highly-industrialized countries
where their production line of automobiles are mostly done by robots programmed by
computers.
The variety of human needs, in the areas of politics, social, cultural and economics
motivated man to further improves his transportation system with the aid of modren
technology. Land mass transportation systems like the light rail transits, buses and huge cargo
trucks were introduced to meet the demands in transportation of people and goods.
As early as 3000 BC, the civilizations of Egypt, Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley
developed roads, first for pack animals and then for wheeled vehicles. The Romans further
made inovations on road building from a city-state by conquering other small states; they built
roads into the conquered regions to help consolidate their gains.
Advancement in engineering during the 18th century paved the way for the
construction of modern roads and streets. And later, in the 20th century, motorways and
highways were introduced for fast moving motor vehicles.
To speed up traffic, modern highways are constructed in almost straight line accross
open country rather than following old or established routes. Congested areas are avoided or
passed through elevated highways and tunnels. Safety is increased by separating traffic and
controlling access. Vehicles traveling in opposite directions are separated by a median. Modern
highways are designed so that motorists can enter or leave a highways only at interchanges
where the highway and another major road intersect. Once of the roads crosses over the other

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on a bridge and ramps conect the two roads so motorists can have access to the connecting
road without disturbing the flow of traffic. This system was later named flyovers and
overpassess. Other characerisitcs of a modern highway include adequate lighting for night
driving, wide shoulders for parking out of traffic, speed-change lanes, climbing lanes, reversible
lanes, bus lanes, reflective signs and pavement markings and traffic-control signals. All of these
are designed to expedite the traffic flow and increase safety level.

The Philippines, in the quest to cope-up with the demands of land transportation
adopted inventions and discoveries of Japan, the United States and some European countries.
Various transportation systems like the metro rail transit, faster air-conditioned buses
and sleeker motor vehicles were introduced in the country to expedite the movement of people
and to achieve a safer traffic ways.
The Philippines also adopted the modern technique of road building and soon it
constructed the first express way North of Manila – the North Diversion road, flyovers,
pedestrian and motor vehicle overpassess were also constructed not only within the
Metropolitan Manila but also to other urbanized places outside of Manila.
Most would agree, however, that such stupendous technological achievements do not
come without a price. Sophisticated weapons technology has provided the means for mass
destruction of life and property; instantaneous communication and wide dissemination of
information of all kinds have brought with them less privacy; the greatuse and abuse of natural
resources has wrought sever threats to the environment and the comparatively frenetic pace of
human existence may ultimately call into question of the benefits of high technology.
Similarly, modernization of land transportation is severly reciprocated by turbulence.
Since the invention of the internal combustion engine, countless changes in the development of
transportation had evolved. However, with the tremendous increase in the number of motor
vehicles, the traffic system became antiquated. It could no longer accomodate the voluminous
traffic users. The expected expeditious and safer transportation is nowhere to be felt. It’s
become fact of motorists life; traffic can and will stop for long periods of time, often for no
apparent reason.
In the United States, traffic engineers and scientists noted the most obvious and
frequent culprits; accidents and construction sites. The Federal Highway Administration
estimates that 60 percent of traffic jams in the United States are in this “non-recurring”
category, which also includes those jams triggered by rubberneckers.
In New Jeersey, U.S.A., traffic jams result from ills as poorly planned or overloaded
intersections; narowing roadways; too many access drives along a highway and regular over-
flowing of ramps.
In the Philippines, traffic jams and other traffic-related problems are also caused by
accidents and ongoing road constructions. Beside these, undisciplined drivers, passengers and
pedestrians, poor traffic control system, and poor implementation of traffic laws are the most
obvious causes of traffic congestion. Inclement weather sometimes also causes unexpected
traffic snarls particularly in Metro Manila where because of drainage problems, floodwaters rise
along the main thoroughfares.
Elsewhere in Baguio where rainfall is a normal occurence in the late afternoons, stalls
traffic flow in the central commercial area because traffic lights become inoperative and

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sometimes traffic enforcers have to seek protection from geting wet with raindrops. In addition
to this, Baguio City Councilor Elmer Datuin noted that traffic congestion in the city results from
a combination of factors such as the increase in the volume of motor vehicles, the blatant
disregard for pedestrian lanes, the accidents caused by indiscriminate and unregulated
roadways, illegal parking and undisciplined motorists and lack of planning and enforcement by
government agencies and probably the need for adequate and effective legislation.
Various measures were introduced to lessen traffic-related problems to incease road
safety level to eventually sped-up the traffic flow. Many countries now regularly implement
low-cost to treat “blackspots” –places where accidents cluster. Successful treatment included:
a. Changes in the lay-out at junctions to define priorities more clearly (use of
roundabouts or traffic circles, has been wide spread in the United Kingdom);
b. More widespread use of road markings to delineate traffic lanes and waiting areas
for turning vehicles;
c. Improvements in skidding resistance of wet roads;
d. More uniform street lighting;
e. More higly visible and legible direction, information and warning signs.

Correspondingly, law enforcement has an important part to play in improving road

safety. Police activity in this respect is most effective when technological aids are available and
when the laws are acceptable to the majority of roads users.
Traffic control systems have also vastly improved in highly urbanized countries. Their
traffic signals are no longer limited to fixed signal system but they now use computerized signal
system – a signaling system which monitors traffic volume by computerized sensors installed on
road pavements which automatically signals to go the lane where there are more vehicles.
In the counry, traffic managers adopted some of the strategies applied by other
countries like optimizing the use of traffic control devices and aids and traffic enforcers. In
addition, various measures are introduced to ease traffic problems: like the reorganization of
the Land Transportation Office as the lead government agency for the improvement of land
transportation system; and the creation for the Metropolitan manila Development Authority
(MMDA) where one of its primary functions is for the effective traffic operation and
management of Metro Manila. Traffic enforcement is also intesified and other police traffic
auxiliaries for the sole purpose of directing traffic and enforcement of traffic laws.
However, despite of these endeavors of the government, traffic problems continue to
hound the people. The economy continues to degenerate because of the delay in the
movement of workers, goods and other economic trades. As councilor Datuin noted, “traffic
congestion has caused tremendous losses to everybody in terms time, money and
opportunities lost and that the perennial traffic problem has also caused embarrassment to the
city as domestic and foreign tourist have become disappointed and disgusted with our traffic
situation which is similar if not worse than Metro Manila.
The ill effects of traffic development are not limited to social, political and economic
facets of human lives. The environment deteriorate because of the continous emissions of
carbon gases of motor vehicle engines. In the United Kingdom, around half of the atmospheric
nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is due to road transport.

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 In Manila, photochemical smog as a combined result of carbon emissions from motor
vehicles and factories hovers over the metropolis which is usually mistaken as fog.
In the City of Baguio, concerned government agencies like the Department of Health
(DOH), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine
Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Science Authority (PAGASA) found out that
continous burning of carbon fuel by motor vehicles as the leading cause of air pollution in the
city.
Literally, problems related to traffic affected every aspect of human endeavors. Hence,
there is a need for an effective traffic management and accident investigation.

Lesson 1
MANPOWER, ANIMAL POWER AND WIND POWER

Transportation – is the movement or conveying of persons and goods from one location to
another.

Man’s need to travel dates as early as the creation of human beings. Biblical passages
alleged that when Adam and Eve ate the fruit of the forbidden tree, they were sent out by God
from paradise of Eden. “therefore the lord God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till
the ground from whence he was taken.”
Since then, the human race expanded and our ancestors constantly move from one
place to another to enable them to survive and others for various reasons. Other biblical
passages mentioned that Moses was chosen by God to speak to the Pharaoh, King of Egypt to
let His children out of Egypt. So, the children of Israel were gloriously brought out from Egypt to
serve God.
Soon, others became nomadic. They constantly migrate from one place to another
according to their own detailed knowledge of exploitable resources.
The term nomad, from the Greek, “to pasture”, was originally used to refer to
pastoralists – groups that migrate in an established pattern to find pasture lands for their
domestic livestoack. However, the term has since been generalized to include all non-settled
populations, of which there are there are three types:
 The first type, comprises foraging populations who wander in search of their food. It is
estimated that 99 percent of all humanity once lived in this way.
 The second, the most significant numerically and historically, comprises the pastoral
nomads who move with their families, belongings and herds of cattle, camel, sheep or
goats through an annual cycle of pastures whose availability is determined by the
alternation of hot and cold or wet dry seasons.
 The third type, comprises gypsies, tinkers and similar itinerants in urban and complex
societies.

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 What worth noting is how man traveled during the ancient period. It is believed that early
human being traveled to places by foot, carrying their loads on their backs or on their heads
while pulled crude sleds. They used every means to make their transportation with the least
time and effort.

VARIOUS ANCIENT MODES OF TRANSPORTATION

A. Man Power. Early man, who had no domesticated animals, carried his own burdens. More
so today, manpower is important in transportation in many parts of the world.
1. Carrying Pole – in China and other parts of the far East, the carrying pole, balanced on
one shoulder is a popular carrying device. On islands of the Pacific, the ends of the pole
are supported by two men, with goods suspended from the pole in between.
2. Back Load and Tumpline – in many parts of the world, goods are carried on the back. In
Subtemala, pots are carried on a wooden framework supported by a tumpline accross
the forehead. In the Andes, the load is held on the back by a strap passing over the
chest.
3. Sledge on Rollers – the moving of heavy burdens was to place them on sledge which
rested on a series of rollers.
4. Sledge on Runners – a simple sledge, probably man-drawn, was in use at the end of the
Old Stone Age in northern Europe, as evidenced by fragments of wooden runners which
survived.
5. Travois – this travois, as the pole arragement called, serves as a platform on which the
burdens are placed.

B. Animal Power. The domestication of animals greatly increased the potential power available
for transportation. Pack animal were introduced as conveyance mainly to save labor. A man
can tend several pack animals moving together, each of which (except dogs) can carry more
than he usually can. Little advantage in speed is gained unless part of the animals carying
capacity is sacrificed.
1. Ox – cattle, which were first domesticated in Mesopotamia, were used as draft animals
to draw war chariots. Oxen are still used as draft animals in many regions of the world.
In some parts of africa, they are used as pack animals and for riding.
2. Reindeer – these were first domesticated in Siberia in the beginning of the Christian era.
In the Altai mountains, they were ridden with saddles. Elsewhere, they draw sledges
somewhat like the dog sledges of the Far North.
3. Dog – the dog, the first animal domesticated, is too slight to carry heavy loads. The plain
Indians sometimes packed light loads on dogs back and piled goods on a travois which
the dogs dragged. In the Far North, the dogs team drawing sledges are the chief means
of transportation and in parts of Europe, the dogs are used to draw small carts.
4. Donkey – the donkey or ass, first domesticated in the Middle East. Early dogs came to
use as a back animal before the domestication of the camel. Donkey caravans carry
goods between the cities of Soutwest Asia and Egypt and the donkey is still the chief
beast of burden among the farmers of the near East, the Mediterranean area and
Mexico where it was introduced from Spain.

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 5. Llama – in pre-columbian America, the Llama was the only new world animal other than
the dog capable of domestication for use in transport. In the high Andes, Llama was
used as a pack animal by the Incas and their Spanish conquerors as it’s by modern
Andean people.
6. Elephant – the Carthaginians used Africa elephant intheir war against Rome but in
recent centuries, these animals have not been tamed. In India, elephants were formerly
used in war and are still employed to some extent for ceremonial processions and big
game hunting. In Burma and Thailand, these huge animals are widely used in the lumber
industry.
7. Horse – around 2,000 B.C., horse drawn chariots appeared in southeast Asia and 1,000
years later, the Persians arrived with cavalry which gave mobility and power to the
German tribes who invaded Europe and to the Central Asian conqueror Genghis Khan. In
Europe, horses were used to draw wheeled vehicles and for riding for sometime until
the introduction of mechanized vehicles.
8. Camel – there are two kinds of camel, the two-humped bactrian camel of Central Asia
and the one-humped dromedary of Arabia have long been used for transport. The
bactrian camel has plodded along the caravan routes between China and Iran for a least
2,000 years. It is also used to draw carts. The drometary, which has less endurance but it
is fleeter and special fast-paced riding camel, is bred by the Arab nomads.
9. Yak – a long-haired type of cattle that lives at high altitudes on the Tibetan plateau and
in the neighboring mountain regions is ridden and used as a pack animal at heights were
horses and ordinary animal could not survive.

C. Wind Power – man realized the energy from the mass of moving air and learned to utilize
such powers to lift rather than to drag. This paved way to invention of air lifted
transportation vessels.
1. Ancient Chinese Kite – kites have been flown as a popular past time in the Far East since
the beginning of the history. Based on a Korean tradition, the kite was first used for
transport when a Korean general employed one in bridge building. By means of a kite, a
cord was conveyed across the river where heavier ropes were fastened and finally the
bridge cable. In the late 10th century, several European armies experimented with kites
in transporting men.
2. Da Vinci’s Ornithopter – the great renaissance artist, scientist and engineer, Leonardo da
Vinci, made study of the flight of the birds and his notebooks sketched a number of
ornithopter which dervies its principal support and propelling from flapping wings like
those of a bird. It was not until the 19th century that rigid wings were envisaged.
3. Montgolfier Ballon – the Montgolfier brothers of France Joseph Michael and Jacques
Entienne have successfully released several ballons when they proposed to use two
condemned prisoners for the first ascent with passengers. Pilatre de Rozier, a natural
historian protested this and claimed the honor for himself. In 1783, he and the Marquis
d’ Arlanoes became the first men to make a free ballon ascent. The ballon constructed
of linen and inflated with hot air traveled 9,000 yards and remained in the air for 20
minutes.

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 4. Siemens’ Rocket Plane – Ernst Werner Von Siemens who later achieved fame as an
electric industrialist, in 1847 designed rocket plane which was to be propelled by the
explosive force of gunpowder. Similarly, Siemens’ rocket plane was never carried
beyond the design stage.
5. Lilienthal Glider – Otto Lilienthal, a German inventor who also made a study of the flight
of birds and experimented with ornithopters going so far as to build a model
ornithopter. His chief work was with gliders. However, in 1891, he made the first of a
number of a glider flights which were to exert a profound influence on the development
of aviation.
6. Santos Dumont’s Airship – one of the pioneers of lighter-than-air craft was Alberto
Santos Dumont, a Brazilian who experimented with the steam-powered ballons in Paris.
He made his first ballon ascent in 1897 and in 1898 completed the construction of his
first airship. He, then built several other airships and in 1901, made a 30 minute round
trip flight between St. Louis and the Eiffel Tower.
7. Wright Brothers’ Flying Machine – inspired by Lilienthal’s glider experiments, Orville and
Wilbur Wright began studying the problems of heavier-than-air flight. They built biplane
kite then over 200 different wing types which they tested in a wind tunnel of their own
invention, before they conducted their first man-carrying powered machine. This flew
succesfully at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina on Dec. 17, 1903. By 1909, airplanes became
sufficiently accepted to justify beginning commercial manufacture of the machine.
8. Lindbergh’s Spirit of St Louis – following the initial flight of Wright brothers airplane, the
development of aviation was rapid. The first airmail was delivered in 1911 and World
War 1 gave an impetus to plane design and the training of pilots. During the 1920’s,
many new records were set. A feat which particularly captured popular imagination was
the first solo flight from New York to Paris, made by Capt. Charles A. Lindbergh in May
1927 in a plane especially built for the flight, the Spirit of St. Louis.

ROADS AND VEHICLES HISTORY

As man, from ancient times to the 20th century, sought to make their transport facilties
more efficient, they have always endeavored to move people and property with the least
expenditure of time, effort and money.
It was stated in the preceding lesson that man first traveled by foot. Then, primitive man
supplemented their own carrying of goods and possessions by starting to domesticate animals
training them to bear small loads and pull crude sleds.

The following are some of the inventions and innovations and important events that
lead to modern land transportation:
A. Wheel, was invented probably in Western Asia – such invention was a milestone and a great
step forward in transportation. As wheel was perfected, crude carts and wagons began to
appear in Tigris-Euphrates Valley about 3500 B.C and later in Crete, Egypt and China. The
wheel was one of man’s great inventions. It enabled him to transport burdens beyond the
power of man or animals to carry or drag, and permitted much greater facility of
movements than the simple sledge on rollers which had to be continually picked up and

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 moved by hands as the sledge is advanced. The following were some of the earliest types of
wheeled carts:
1. Solid Wheels on Fixed Axle – this ancient cart represent an early step in the
evolution of wheeled vehicles. Its solid wheels, which were made of a single piece of
wood, rotated on single axle.
2. Summerian Chariot with Flank Wheels – this chariot, of about 2400 B.C, had solid
wheels built up of three pieces and so was more durable than the one-piece wheel.
3. Greek Quadrica with Spoked Wheels – drawn by four horses, was a light and elegant
vehicles for gentleman about 250 B.C. It had spoked wheels and axles of irons or
bronze, handles for aid in mounting and seat formed by a board placed across the
handles.
4. Roman Carpentum – a closed, two-wheeled cart, was the favored vehicle when
Roman women journeyed outside the city.
5. Italian Cocchio, 1288 – a traveling wagon in which the passengers were protected by
a coverting of leaher or cloth fixed over a wooden framework.

B. Wheeled Vehicles, could not use the narrow paths and trails used by pack animals and early
roads were soon built.

C. The Romans, were the major road builders in the ancient world. The Romans road network
reached a total of about 50,000 miles (80,000 kms), with Feeder roads branching out from
the main highways. It was costly because its deep foundation, formed by layer after heavy
stones, was necesary to make roads that would carry heavy traffic for many years.

D. John l. Macadam, did not abandon the theory of feeder road building and perfected the
macadamized road in England about 1815.

E. After the Fall of the Romans, in the 5th century, land haulage generally declined because
highways suffered from inadequate maintenance. Such improvements however, as the
horse collars (10th century), the addition of springs to coaches, new methods of road
construction, and the introduction of toll roads (18th century) all continued to ease and
speed land travel.

F. Signifiant Improvement of Road Vehicle, began with the adaptation of Coach Spring about
1650

G. In the Mid-18th Century, English Roads, were so bad that the coaches could average only
about 4 mph (6.4 km/h) and the mail was usually carried by boys on horses.

H. John Palmer, introduced his first fast mail coach in March of 1785 and by 1800, the English
coach system was in full swing.

I. The Invention of Bicycle, in the early 19th century served as a nursery of automobile
builders. One of the modern ancestors of the modern bicycle was the Hobby Horse or Dan

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 Horse. The wheels were made of wood, with tires of iron and the riders pushed themselves
along with their feet on the ground.
1. The German Baron Karl Von Drais in 1817 introduced a steerable wheel creating
the “draisienne” or “dandy horse”.
2. In 1838, Kirkpatrick Macmilan, a Scottish blacksmith, made the first machine
with pedals which were attached to and drove the rear wheel by means of
cranks.

J. Pneumatic Tires (inflated by air) by a Scot, Jhon Boyd Bunlop appeared in late 19th century
(about 1888).

K. Motor Vehicle – the first made of transportation to challenge the railroads.

1. Frenchman Etienne Lenoir, made possible the introduction of motorized carriages by his
invention in the 1860’s and 70’s of the Internal Combustion Engine.
2. Nicolaus Otto and Gottlieb Daimler, pioneeed the manufacture of gas engines and later
Daimler became a successful automabile manufacturer.
3. Rudolf Diesel, a German engineer, developed an internal combustion engine which is
similar with the gasoline engine but requires no electrical ignition system or carburetor
and uses other form of liquid fuel, the diesel fuel.
4. The Automobile, found its greatest popularity in the U.S., where the first Horseless
Carriage appeared in the 1890’s.
5. In 1908, Henry Ford, introduced the Model T, which was proved so popular that by
1914, Ford had adopted Mass Production methods to meet the demand.
6. In 1956, Felix Wankel, a German mathematician, developed an advanced type of engine,
named after him, that operates very differently from gas and diesel engines. It is started
by a moving crankshaft.

From Ford Era, the demand of vehicle became great for the transportation of goods,
product, communication and people. Hence. Man started manufacturing large cargo trucks and
buses for mass transportation.

Presently, the introduction of the Light Trail Transit (LRT), The Metro Rail Transit (MRT),
flyovers, pedestrian and vehicle culverts, rock sheds and other modern traffic ways contributed
to the expeditious movement of traffic users.

Lesson 2
FUNDAMENTALS OF TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT

Management – it refers to the skillful use of means to accomplish a purpose.

Operation – pertains to a course or series of acts to effects a certain purpose; manner of action;
or a vital or natural process of activity.
Roadway – it refers to that part of the traffic way over which motor vehicles pass.
Shoulder – it refers to either side of the roadway, especially along highways.

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Traffic – it refers to the movement of persons, goods or vehicles, either powered by combustion
system or animal drawn, from one place to another for the purpoe of travel. In French “traffic “
is called “trafique” and In Italian “trafico” derived from “trafficare” literally means “to carry on
trade of uncertain origin”.

Traffic Management is Necessary

With the advent of science and technology, new and modernized traffic facilties are
introduced. However, despite of these modernizations, traffic congestions persist to exist. The
only way to at least cope up with the prevailing traffic related problems is a coordinated traffic
management. Traffic management is therefore designed to make the traffic way safer for
travelers, expedite the movement of traffic and to provide convenience to the traffic facilties
users.

A. Major Causes of Traffic Congestion. Based on studies conducted by authorities:

1. Physical Inadequacy – this is characterized by lack of roads, narrow bridges, railroad
crossing, lack of traffic facilities, etc.
2. Poor Control Measures – this is characterized by ineffective mechanical control devices,
inefficient traffic officers and poor implementation of traffic laws, rules and regulations.
3. Human Errors – many traffic congestion are caused by slow drivers or poor driving
habits, pedesrian mistakes, officers errors, poor planning, poor legislation and traffic
accidents which are mostly attributed to human errors.
4. Poor Maintenance – oftetimes motor vehicles are stalled in traffic ways because of
unrepaired diggings, cracks on road pavement or unfinished road pavement concreting.
This can be attributed to inappropriate budget for the maintenance of the traffic
facilities. On the other hand, police should also report lights out, damage portion of the
traffic way to expite the action from the concerned government offices.

B. Scope of Traffic Management . in conection with the above stated causes of congestion,
authorities conceived that a systematic and effective traffic management is needed which
includes but not limited to the following:
1. All public surface facilities traversing and parking and all types of conveyances for the
movement of persons and things.
2. All agencies having responsibilities for ascertaining traffic flow requirements, planning,
approving, funding, construction and/or maintaining these public facilities for such
movements.
3. All agencies responsible for licensing, approving, restricting, stopping, prohibiting or
controlling the use of these facilities.

C. Agencies Involved in Traffic Management . For a successful and effective management,

specific roles and responsibilties are vested on the following:

1. Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC). The DOTC through the Lnad
Transportation Office (LTO) is responsible for the implementation of the Land

13
 Transportation Code of the Philippines (R.A. 4136) particurlarly on the issuance of
drivers licenses, registration of motor vehicles, approval of franchises for public
conveyances through the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB)
and conducting traffic safety seminars
2. City or Municipal Engineers Office. In the local level, these offices are responsible for the
planning, construction and maintenance of traffic facilities within their respective
locality.
3. Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). This is the main executive
department which is responsible for the planning, construction and maintenance of
traffic facilities particularly those categorized as national highways and other major road
arteries.
4. Legislative (Congress/City or Municipal Boards). The legislative bodies are not only
responsible for the passing or amendment of laws concerning traffic but also they are
involved in the planning and approval of government projects.
5. Philippine National Police (PNP). The PNP through its Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG)
before known as Traffic Management Group (PNP-TMG) is responsible primarily for the
direct enforcement of traffic laws, rules and regulations. They also perform other
functions such as conducting of information dissemination campaign, submitting traffic
scheme proposals, and other function as the need arises.
6. Academic Institution. Schools, both public and private are responsible for the basic
traffic education by integrating in their respective programs and curriculum subjects or
topics on traffic safety.
7. Courts. The courts are responsible for the adjudication of traffic-related cases filed
before them.
8. Public Information Offices. The government through the Philippine Information Agency
(PIA) provides the necessary updated information to the public by creating traffic safety
campaigns and other activities relating to traffic.
9. Citizen Support Groups. The private institutions or organizations also help in the
prevention of traffic congestion by assisting government offices in various activities
particularly during special occasions and holidays where traffic problem is likely to
happen.
10. Media. Government and privately-owned publications and radio and television
broadcasting companies provide necessary and updated traffic-related information to
the public through their respective programs.
11. Other Agencies, which are in one way or another help in the easing of traffic-related
problems.

Note; With the preceding accounts, a successful traffic managment is not the sole responsibility
of the government but rather a concerted effort betweeen the government and private
organizations.

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 Lesson 3
THE PILLARS OF TRAFFIC

Pillars of traffic for a clearer understanding of the various areas of traffic management,
the following pillars are conceived.
1. Traffic Engineering – It is the science of measuring traffic and travel the study of the basic
laws relative to the traffic law and generation; the application of this knowledge to the
professional practice of planning, deciding and operating traffic system to achieve safe and
efficient transportation of persons and goods.

Funstions of Traffic Engineering:

a. Fact finding, surveys and recommendations of traffic rules and regulations.
b. Supervisions and maintenance to the application of traffic control devices.
c. Planning of traffic regulations.

Agencies and/or Offices under Traffic Engineering:

a. Department of Public Work and Highway (DPWH). Its scope is national which includes
the responsibility for determining traffic law, pattern, draw origin, and destinations,
studies of persons and things, planning, approving, funding and construction of:
(a.) National roads which interconnect cities and municipalities; network of national
roads through cities and municipalities.
(b.) Yearly maintenance and repair programs which include widening and re-designing of
current road systems.

b. Provincial Governments. These local government units have similar responsibilities with
the DPWH but limited to traffic facilties in the municipalities within the province.
c. Municipal Governments. Their responsibilities are similar to the provincial government
but limited to the network of streets and roads within the barangays.
d. Chartered Cities. Their responsibilities are similar to that of the municipal government
but limited to the network of streets and roads within the cities.

Objectves of Traffic Engineering:

a. To achieve efficient, free and rapid flow of traffic.
b. To prevent traffic accident.
c. To simplify police enforcement actions and performance.
d. To show that good police actions and performance makes engineering plans effective.
e. To present the close relationship of the pillars of traffic in the improvement of trafic
problems.

When and Where the Objectives of Traffic Engineering are Applied?

a. Habitually congested commercial areas.
b. Heavily traveled thoroughfares.
c. Congested local areas and intersections.

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 d. During special occasions and events.
e. During disasters or emergencies.
f. At school crossings.

Methods in Achieving the objectives of Traffic Engineering

a. Planning and Geometric Design-factor Employed in Planning.
(1) Composition of traffic streams.
(2) Traffic volumes for capacity.
(3) Origin and destination.

b. Factors Influencing Design

(1) Composition of traffic.
(2) Volume of traffic.
(3) Speed of vehicles.
(4) The starting, turning and stopping abilities of traffic units.
(5) Performance values of roads users.

c. Regulation and Control-Traffic Regulation

(1) Based and confined within the boundaries of safety, public welfare and convenience.
(2) Limitations imposed on roads users and their load.
(3) Basic general rule of road use and conduct.
(4) Prohibition and Restrictions.

2. Traffic Education – It is the process of giving training and practice in the actual application of
traffic safety knowledge. The following are the agencies and offices responsible for traffic
education.

a. Schools (Public and Private). Traffic education can be carried out by imparting
knowledge concerning traffic safety, training and practice in the actual aplication of
traffic safety, and developing traffic safety morality.
(1) Elementary. In this level, traffic education is focused on safety and guides stressing
traffic safety, classroom discussions of accidents, incidents and safety rules,
organizing safety patrols.
(2) Secondary. Traffic education for high schools students is geared towards school
safety organizations.
(3) Higher Education. Some colleges and universities offer and conduct courses
regarding traffic safety subjects.

b. Public Infomation Programs. The public should be informed on all activities affecting the
citizens and the community relating to traffic (dissemination of information). This can be
done through the public information agency, newspapers, radio and television
broadcasting networks and other forms of media.

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 c. Citizen Support Groups. These are mostly composed by voluntary non-government
organizations (NGOs), radio communication groups, rotary organizations and other
voluntary clubs. These organizations usually develop citizens responsibilities, conduct
organized educational campaign, instill awareness of the traffic problems; and provide
information regarding major traffic requirements and needs.

3. Traffic Enforcement –This field deals mostly on the implementation and enforcement of
traffic laws and rules and regulations. The following are the various agencies/offices that are
involved in enforcement of traffic laws:
a. Land Transportation Office (LTO). This office is responsible for the following:
(1) Vehicle registration
(2) Vehicle inspections
(3) Drivers licensing (examinations, suspensions and revocations)
(4) Public to police on stolen or wanted vehicles.

b. Legislative Bodies. Included are the Senate, Congress, Provincial Boards and City and
Municipal Councils. They are responsible for the passing and/or amending of laws
and/or ordinances.
c. Police Traffic Enforcement. This pillar is not limited to the PNP-HPG but it includesd all
government personnel who are duly authorized for the direct enforcment of traffic laws
such as:
(1) The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) for the national capital
region (NCR).
(2) Police Auxiliaries
(3) LTO Flying Squad

4. Traffic Ecology or Traffic Environment – This pillar is very recent which includes the study of
potentially disastrous population explosion, changes in urban environment due to the scale
and density of new urban concentration and new activities carried out, air pollution, water
pollution and crowding especially transport congestion which result therein.
a. What are the environmental effects of the urbanization of transportation? Any decision in
modernizing the transportation system shall consider the following environmental effects:
Noise. The ill effect of noise is (1) Noise. The ill effect of noise is one of the
valuation of the.......................................... the consequences of traffic urbanization
l of noise ................................................ inside and outside a
ator of the quality of life. The exact ................................................ influence of traffic noise
ll understood. It is known that ................................................ continued exposure to
ecibel annually) causes loss of ................................................ hearing. Average

(a) Typical home – 40 to 50 dB

(b) Heavy trucks – 90 dB 15m/ft
(c) Freight trains – 75 Db AT 15m/ft
(d) Air conditioning – 60 Db at 6m/ft

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 Vibration. Effect can be sever (2) Vibration. Effect can be severe particularly
and when ................................................ the building is old. While there are subjective costs
a ................................................ minimum cost of damage or prevention can be established
............................ experiment.

Air Pollution. It is one of the (3) Air Pollution. It is one of the more difficult
mplexity of ................................................ the issues involved. The effects of pollution are also
.................................. meteorological and even by micro-climate.
Dirt. These are foul and filthy (4) Dirt. These are foul and filthy substances related
empty ................................................ can of oils, grease materials, etc.
Visual Intrusion. This can hav (5) Visual Intrusion. This can have positive as well
r way ................................................ blots out an unsightly prison or railway yard, it may have
......................................... other hand, the appearance of an elevated expressway or railway
.............. neighborhood is one of the aspects most frequently complained of. In
............... visual intrusion can be avoided by putting a highway or railway at grade or in
.... cutting. In many cases, there may be cheaper solution.
Loss of Privacy. Loss of privac (6) Loss of Privacy. Loss of privacy from drivers and
ne’s ................................................ house and garden frequently disliked environment effect.
..................................... would prevent this, while at the same time reducing noise.
(7) Changes in Amount of Light. It is easier up to a point because part of the disadvantages can
be valued in terms of the additional lighting costs of those affected. But, there is probably a
pyschological element also which it would not be easy or perhaps necesary to disentangle
where relevent from the last two items.
(8) Neighborhood Severance, both physical and sociological. This can partly be quantified in
terms of changed travel time and costs and accident experience to pedestrians and traffic.
(9) Relocation. There must be programs that are designed to cover compensation for those who
relocate as a consequence of transport investment, whether properly owner or tenants. The
people relocated will tend to be decentralized as will as those sufficiently afected by the
environment consequences to refer to move.
(10) Distraction during planning and construction. In some cases, benefits offset the distraction
cost, which are experienced by people during construction of new facilties, loss of business,
excess noise, dirt, vibration during constructing and excess journey costs through diversions
because of building.
(11) Accident Experiences. These are evaluated by well established procedures of which
perhaps the only major controversial aspect is the valuation given to human life. A certain
amount is known about differences in accident experience on different roads and in different
circumtances.
(12) Pedestrian Journey. The opportunity to make the roads safe and enjoyable for pedestrians
and efficient for vehicles; and set of roads provided access to dwelling and is designed primarily
for the safety of pedestrians.
(13) Congestion and other Benefits to Vehicles. It is for a livable and safe residential
environment by reduing through vehicle travel. Travel must be made convenient. Highway
diversion curves indicate that 80 percent of the trafic will take a route that is 20 percernt faster.

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Vehicle travel time is made up of three componets; free flowing travel, stop time and
acceleration or deceleration.

a. External Factors that Influence the existing and future behavior of population:
(1) Rapidly increasing population growth.
(2) Rapidly increasing urbanization.
(3) Rapidly increasing motorization.
(4) Industrialization and technical modernization.
(5) Improvement of the transportation network that is the street network and the
public transportation facilities.

b. Alternatives. A more pleasant environment can be achieved without negative implication

for economy and trade, so that any reasonable step in this direction by decision-makers
deserves support. The following are some of the proposed activities that may reduce the
adverse effects of traffic development to our ecology:
(1) Towns are better with less traffic, so long as adequate provision is made for the
mobility of workers and residents and the distribution of goods. It is of urgent
necessity that National and Local Government develop efforts to reduce the adverse
effects of motor traffic in urban areas.
(2) Where and when traffic congestion and its cost are serve and frequent, assures to
reduce the use of private cars and goods, vehicles and to improve alternative forms
of transport should be introduce.
(3) To limit traffic and to improve the efficiency and quality of service of buses and
transport.
(4) Pedestrian scheme should be introduced whenever possible to improve the
environment and safety for pedestrians.
(5) The use of non-carbon emitting vehicles should be encouraged like bicycle whenever
practical.
(6) Motor Vehicle reduction scheme should also be introduced.

c. Laws and Statues Concerning Traffic Ecology

(1) P.D. 1181. Providng for the prevention, control and abatement of Air Pollution from
motor vehicles and for other purposes.
“ Sec. 1 – the purpose is to prevent, control and abate the emission of air pollutants
from motor vehicles in order to protect the health and welfare of the people and to
prevent or minimize damage to property and hazards to land transportation”.

(2) Letter of Instruction No. 551. Directing the law enforcement agencies to implement
the pollution control program.
(3) R.A. 8749 otherwise known as the Clean Air Act. An act providing for the regulation
of motor vehicles emitting toxic gases like the use of the diesel and leaded gasoline.

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5. Traffic Economy. This is the most recent of the pillars of traffic which deals with the benefits
and adverse effects of traffic to our economy. Primarily, traffic operation is designed to
expedite the movement of traffic.however, with the prevailing traffic congestion during
rush hours in any given locality, traffic adversely affects the economic status of the
commuting public.
One aspect affecting our economy is the unending increase of oil prices in the world
market. Somehow, programs must be instituted in order to minimize the ill effect of rising
prices of basic commodities.
Delay resulting from traffic congestion affects not only the time of travel but the
productivity of an individual as well.

Lesson 4
TRAFFIC SAFETY EDUCATION

Traffic Safety Education. It is the process of training roads users in the avoidance and
prevention of traffic-related accidents.

Road Safety. It refers to reduced risk of accident or injury on the roads, achieved through
multidisciplinary approaches involving road engineering and traffic management,
education and training of road users and vehicle design.

1. Factors Contributing to Accidents. Research studies in the United Kingdom have shown that
human factors contribute to 95 percent of accidents, roads factors to about one quarter of
a percent and vehicle factors to fewer than five percent.
a. Human Errors include:
 Going too fast or excessive speed.
 Failing to give at junctions.
 Following too closely.
 Overtaking improperly.
 Misperceiving or misjudging the road situation ahead.
 Intoxication of alcohol or drug and
 Lack of skill.

b. Road deficiences that are main contributory factors are:

 Poor design of layout and control at junctions.
 Inadequate signing, road marking and lighting.
 Slippery roads and
 Obstructions on the road such as parked vehicle, on going road construction, etc.

c. Main vehicle factors are:

 Defects in tires, brakes, and lights.

20
  Absence or non-using of seat belts and
 Poorly maintained motor vehicles.

2. The Three (3) Principles that have been emphasized as effective in the prevention of traffic
accidents are known as the three (3) “E”s or pillars of traffic. Recently, however, traffic
environment and traffic economy were added to complete the five (5) pillars of traffic.
a. Engineering (Traffic Engineering). Effective construction and maintenance of traffic but
also prevents the occurence of traffic accidents. Successful treatments have included:
 Changes in layout at junctions to define priorities more clearly (use of roundabouts or
traffic circles).
 More wide use of road markings to delineate traffic lanes and waiting areas for turning
vehicles.
 Improvements in skidding resistance of wet roads.
 More uniform street lighting and
 More highly visible and legible direction, information and warning signs.

b. Education (in traffic safety). When roads users are informed of the traffic laws, rules and
regulations, accidents are likely prevented. Further, there are strong suggestions of
benefits from pre-school schemes involving parents, and from road safety education in
schools where it is an integral part of the school curriculum. Inluded are:
 New approach to training and educating young drivers.
 Training in hazard perception and
 Changing of attitudes.

c. Enforcement (of traffic rules). One of the causes of accidents is the blatant non-
compliance of motorists and pedestrians to traffic laws, rules and regulations. To
minimize the occurence of accidents due to non-compliance of road users, enforcement
must be conducted. The following are highly recommended in areas of traffic
enforcement.
 Strengthening and simplifying the application of the law.
 New technology to aid enforcement.
 Enhanced publicity.
 Education of teenagers in schools.
 The development of rehabilitation course like seminars for apprehended traffic
violators.

d. Ecology/Environment. People should be educated regarding the adverse effect of traffic

to our environment that directly or indirectly affects the populations health.
e. Economy. People should learn also to develop schemes that do not only lessen expenses
but also accident-free.

3. Levels of Traffic Safety Education:

a. Imparting knowledge concerning traffic safety.

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 b. Training and practice in the actual application of traffic safety knowledge; and
c. Developing traffic safety morality.

4. Traffic Safety for Children. This is highly unsystematic and is usually carried out in the home
through parental education and in kindergarten and nurseries. This is now necessary to
make it systematic to lessen the number of children fatalities and injuries.
a. Elementary - Pupils are usually educated by stressing on traffic safety and guides and
classroom discussions of accidents, incidents and other traffic safety rules.
b. Secondary - This level initiates driver education program because student have reached
the age to drive, hence, proper driving habit should be stressed. It also includes the
establishment of school safety organizations.
c. Higher Education – some universities and colleges offer and conduct courses to private
and public agencies regarding traffic safety subjects.

5. Traffic Safety Education for Adults. Safety education for elder pedestrians and drivers is
relatively easier compared to the education designed for younger children since the former
group is in a better position to understand what is being taught to them.
a. It is the general belief that by being a better driver, it follows that one becomes a better
depestrian. By knowing the limitations of the driver and the vehicle as a driving student,
one learns to watch out for dangerous cues such as a pedestrians. This is the basic
reason why traffic safety education for adults usually deals only with the foundations or
basics of driving.
b. Driver education is carried out in secondary schools and in private and government
sponsored driving school in a number of countries where people are expected to know
how to drive when they reach legal ages. The basic purpose of this education are:
(1) To develop good traffic citizens who are equiped to live in a motorized society and
achieving traffic safety.
(2) To develop citizens who are legally eligible to get a driver’s license.

6. Driver’s Education. In general driver instruction aims primarily to teach the rudiments of
driving. Secondary aims are as follows:
a. To instil awareness of one’s legal and moral responsibilities in traffic and
b. To teach the abilities required for one to be eligible for a driver’s license.

7. Four (4) Basic Types of Instruction Methods used in Driver Education Programs:
a. Comprehensive – this method places the student into real life of driving situations from
the beginning.
b. Traditional Instruction – this type of instruction depends on instructor-student
communication.
c. Commentary Driving Method – the student-driver accompanied by an instructor. As the
student-driver drives, the instructor has to give a commentary on his driving – what he
sees, what he does, why he does, what he proposes to do, what others are likely to do,
etc.

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 d. Simulated Conditions – On and Off the Road Training. The premise of simulated
conditions training is that the behavior of the driver – subject placed in condition wil be
relatively analogous to normal behavior. Simulator is a static machine with all the
important features of a car used in driving method or driving training. There are two
methods of simulation presently adopted:
(1) Partial Simulation Method – this method has the specific aim of training for the
subtasks of the driving task.
(2) Global Simulation – it may be classified into two (2) specific groups which are:
training, simulated in traffic situations and conditions, with the use of simulations.
Simulators are most commonly used for the following types of training:
 Training in basic car-control skills.
 Perceptual training.
 Emergency training.

(3) Classification of films as shown by the simulators:

 The analytical film which provides an objective analysis of the driving situation
presented to the student.
 The didactic film which aims to show good driving behavior.
 The simulation film which offers visual realism to driving situations and
therefore a good aid in actual practice.

8. Essential Component of Driving Tasks:

a. Collection of information which includes:
 Perceptual scanning and
 Identification

b. Processing of information which includes:

 Prediction and
 Decision making

c. Action which is focused on:

 Motor skills and control of vehicles and
 Knowledge and subjective interpretation.

9. Biorhythm – It is the theory which asserts that man exhibit a constant variation of life
energy and mood states. Man’s theorized cycles and interpretations rhythm is peculiar
characteristics of most natural phenomena like:
a. The diurnal exchange of light and darkness.
b. The four seasons.
c. Our wet and dry season.
d. The waxing and waning of the moon.

The observation of the rhythm mentioned and their possible correlation with the habits of

23
man has led to a host of different theories that tried to explain this correlation in term of
physical, psychological, etc. The following are the most controversial theory of biorhythm:

a. 23 day cycle – our cycle of strength, endurance and courage (the male component of a
person).
b. 28 day – emotional cycle equivalent to a female’s 28 day menstrual cycle, our cycle of
sensitivity, love and intuition (the female component of a person).
c. 33 day intellectual cycle – all these are present at the time we are born. When the curve
is above the center line, the biorhythm value is said to be “HIGH” or a person has more
energy to spare such as:
a. Physical High – we tend to be energetic, strong, full of vitality.
b. Emotional High – we tend to be creative, artistic, cheerful and happy.
c. Intellectual High – we are able to think quickly and logically.

When the curve is below the center line, the biorhythm is said to be “LOW” or in a
recharged period such as:
a. Physical low – we tend to tire quickly and to succumb to illness easily.
b. Emotionally low – we feel moody, irritable or depressed.
c. Intellectual low – concentrating or remembering is difficult or we are likely to use
poor judgment when any of the curves crossed the center line. This is called a critical
day wherein our systems seem to be in a state of transition. During a critical day,
people tend to get sick easily, seem to lack coordination and tend to be accident
prone.

10. Importance of Biorhythm in the field of study

It should be borne in mind that biorhythm does not predict what actually will
happen. All it does is to give us a hint on how we will tend to feel in a certain day.
a. The theory asserts that people are accident prone if their biorhythm crosses the
centerline on a certain day or is totally below the line.
b. Theoretically, if we know our biorhythm for a certain day, we can psychologically cope
up with any situation. If we usually overcome any ill effect by awarenesss and will
power.

This idea has been put into use in different countries in the world, and the result helps
reduce accident rates until it is totally refuted.

11. Safety Campaign. This is a mass publicity aimed to make road users behave more safely.
These basically focus on public information attitudes and particular or specific behaviors or
combinations of these.
Safety Campaign is also known as road propaganda which may be intended simply to
inform or it may be felt that the public is already aware of the recommended behavior
by need to be persuaded into adopting it.
a. Safety Campaign Classifications:

24
 (1) According to purpose – may be categorized as informational, attitudinal and
behavioral; and
(2) According to kind of appeal – used to reason by simply feeding the public with
authenticated factual data.

b. Safety Campaign Design:

(1) Initial campaign planning
(2) Final campaign design
(3) Campaign evaluation

c. Private and Government entities responsible for safety campaign:

(1) Newspapers
(2) Radio Broadcasting Networks
(3) Television Broadcasting Networks
(4) Public Information Agencies

Lesson 5
TRAFFIC LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS

The standards of regulating movements on roads, streets and highways are found in
traffic laws, rules and regulations.
In the Philippines, the mass of traffic laws, rules and regulations have their source in
laws, Presidential Decrees (P.D.s), Executive Order’s (C.O.s), Letters of Instructions (L.O.I’s),
Administrative Orders and Implementing Memoranda and other Special Laws relative to traffic
operation and traffic law enforcement. As a traffic law enforcer, it is essential that you should
be familiar with these rules and regulations.
In addition, traffic signs, pavement markings and other control devices are traffic law
themselves. Violations of such constitute misdemeanor or infraction of law.
The following are the basis for the traffic regulations and prohibitions in the country:

1. Republic Acts (R.A.s)

a. R.A. 4136. This is the basic law regulating land transportation in the Philippines. It has
repealed Act No. 3992 (the Revised Motor Vehicle Law). Further, as amended by R.A
Nos. 5715, 6374, PD Nos. 382, 843, 896, 1057, 1934, 1950, 1958, BP Blg. 43, 74 and 398.
b. R.A. 6539. The act which is known as the “Anti-Carnapping Act of 1972”, the act
preventing and penalizing carnapping.
c. R.A. 5448. Act imposing a tax on privately owned passenger automobiles, motorcycles
and scooters and a science stamp tax, to constitute a special science fund defining the
programs, projects and activities of science agencies to be financed therefrom and for
other purposes.
d. R.A. 8749. Also known as the “Clean Air Act” which regulates emission of toxic gases of
both gasoline and diesel engines and bans the use of leaded gas for gasoline engines.

25
 e. R.A. 8750. It provides for the attachment of seat belts for all types of motor vehicles and
imposes penalty for the non-compliance thereof.
f. R.A. 7924. The act creating the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA),
defining its powers and functions, providing funds therefor and for other purposes.

2. Presidential Decrees (P.D.s)

a. P.D. No. 96. Regulating the use of sirens, bells, horns, etc., by prohibiting the attachment
of any siren, horn bells, etc., on motor vehicles which produce unusual or startling
sounds as well as blinkers and other similar devices unless the vehicle belongs to the
AFP, NBI, LTO, PNP, BJMP, Hospitals and Fire Department and are specifically intended
for use in emergencies.
b. P.D. No. 101. Expediting the methods of prescribing, redefining or modifying the lines
and modes of operations of public utility motor vehicles in the Philippines.
c. P.D. No. 207. Declaring as part of the laws of the Philippines the Vienna Convention on
Road Traffic, Signs and Signals.
d. P.D. No. 612. Requiring compulsory insurance for all types of motor vehicles against
third party liability as an additional pre-requisite for registration by the LTO.
e. P.D. No. 1686. Imposing a tax on every motor vehicle equipped with air conditioner.
f. P.D. No. 1181. Providing for the abatement of air pollution from motor vehicles and for
other purposes.
g. P.D. No. 1605. Granting the Metropolitan Manila Commission certain powers related to
traffic management and control in metropolitan manila providing penalties and for
other purposes.
h. P.D. No. 98. Regulating the issuance of license plates of all motor vehicles.
i. P.D. No. 109 Modifying P.D. 98.
j. P.D. No. 1729. Authorizing the Bureau of Land Transportation to dispose of impound
motor vehicles unclaimed by owners for a certain period of time.
k. P.D. No. 1730. Declaring the syndicated printing, manufacture, distribution, possession
or use of fake official Bureau of Land Transportation forms, documents, plates and
stickers as offenses involving economic sabotage.

3. Letters of Instruction (L.O.I.s)

a. L.O.I. No. 43. Providing for the removal of all impediments on roads, streets and
highways such as constructions, stalled or parked vehicles and other movable property
that obstruct free passage. This LOI abrogated city or municipal ordinances governing
the disposition of traffic on city and municipal streets throughout the country.
b. L.O.I. No. 112. Prohibiting freight and cargo trucks from using roads, highways and
bridges whose load capacities are in excess of specific allowable limits.
c. L.O.I. No. 229. Requiring all motor vehicle owners, users or drivers to have in their
possession at all times while driving at least one(1) pair of early warning device (EWD)
for use when the vehicle is disabled on roads, streets and highways or other
emergencies compelling the vehicle to be on stop position.
d. L.O.I No. 716. Every motor vehicle to equip at least a pair of early warning device.

26
 e. L.O.I No. 551. Directing the law enforcement agencies to implement the Pollution
Control Program.
f. L.O.I. No. 853. Calling for the National Tripartite Conference to consider the
establishment of viable labor-management relations based upon the “boundary system”
in land transportation.
g. L.O.I. No. 1009. All owners of private motor vehicles who desire to stop operating or
using their number plates and registration certificates to surrender to Bureau of Land
Transportation.
h. L.O.I. No. 1071. Owners and/or operators of motor vehicles are authorized to pay the
annual premiums for the insurance of their motor annual premiums for the insurance of
their motor vehcles on quarterly basis.

4. Department Orders (D.O.s)

a. DOTC D.O. 88-305. Rules of pleadings, practice and procedure for appeals on
franchising, fare rates charges and other related matters pertinent to Land
Tansportation Public Utilities.
b. D.O. 93-693. Revised schedule of administrative fees and charges of the Land
Transportation Office.

5. Administrative and Special Orders

a. Administrative Order No. VIII, S-1968, LTC. Requiring the towing and impounding of
stalled motor vehicles on public highways and the imposition of corresponding fees
thereof.
b. Administrative Order No. 1, S-1973, LTC. Prescribing guidelines and procedures in the
implementation of PD No. 96.
c. Administrative Order No. 1, S-1975, LTC. Laying down specific rules of action in the
imposition of uniform fines and penalties for violation of the provisions of RA 4136.
d. Special Order No. 101-IRM, LTC. Enumerating and identifying various city streets where
parking is prohibited.

6. Memorandum Circulars
a. LTC Memorandum to all Patrol Officers, Deputies and Agents dated 09 August 1975.
Directing that motor vehicles whose loads are rice, cereals, fertilizers and other prime
commodities are not to be apprehended and stoppped on roads and highways except
only in cases of serious violations.
b. LTC Memorandum Circular No. 33, dated 12 September 1972. Providing guidelines in
the apprehension of illegally parked motor vehicles.
c. LTC Circular No. 15, dated 19 January 1972. Regulating and laying instructions in the use
of Special Commemorative Motor Vehicle Plates.
d. M.C. 94-199. Aide-memoir regarding retention and authority by LTO to register
motorized tricycles under R.A. 4136 and guidelines to implement devolution of LTFRB’s
Franchising Authority over T.C’s per R.A. 7160 issued by DOTC.
e. M.C. 94-188. Issuance of driver’s license to disabled persons.

27
 f. M.C. 92-146. Re-implementation of LOI 229, as amended by LOI 479 directing the
installation of early warning devices of motor vehicles.
g. M.C. 94-192. Diesel smoke emission test for motor vehicles.
h. M.C. 90-020. Directing all public land transportation service operators and drivers to
display in any conspicuous place of their vehicles the authorized fare matrix for the
specific route granted them to avoid conflict.
i. M.C. 93-011. Enjoining all public utility operators to use garage instead of public places
or side streets in parking their vehicles.
j. M.C. 94-002. Sanctions on operators arising from the violations of their drivers.
k. M.C. 94-209. Clarificatory guidelines for the registration/operation of new private
vehicles particularly in the use of conduction sticker.

7. Executive Orders (E.O.s)

a. E.O. 125. Reorganizing the DOTC, defining its powers and functions and for other
purposes.
b. E.O. 266. Providing for two service units in the office of the Asst. Sec. for Land
Transportation in the DOTC (Law Enforcement Service-LES and Traffic Adjudication
Service – TAS), defining the powers and functions thereof and for other purposes.
c. E.O. 202. Creating the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
d. E.O. 248. Empowering the Land Transportation Commission to control and supervise the
operations of motor vehicle driving schools.

8. Other Special Laws, Statutes, etc.

a. Batas Pambansa Blg. 344 (B.P. 344). Act to enhance the mobility of disabled persons by
requiring certain buildings, institutions, establishments and public utilities to install
facilities and other devices.
“Sec. 1, Par. 2. In the case of the parking place of any of the above institutions,
buildings or establishments or public utilities, the owner or operator shall reserve
sufficient and suitable space for the use of disabled persons.”
“Sec. 2. In case of public conveyance, devices such as the prominent
display of posters, stickers shall be used to generate public awareness of the
rights of the disabled and posters understanding of their special needs.
Discriminating against disabled persons in the carriage or transportation of
passengers is hereby declared unlawful.”

b. Memorandum Unnumbered Dated July 13, 1992. Early warning Device (EWD) not a
requirement for registration.
c. SC Bars Lawmen from Removing Car Plates (187 SCRA 432).

IMPORTANT PROVISIONS OF R.A. 4136

Words and phrases used in R.A. 4136 as used in this Act. The following words and
phrases are defined for better and common understanding.

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a. Motor Vehicle – shall mean any vehicle propelled by any power other than muscular power
using the public highways, but excepting road rollers, trolley cars, street-sweepers,
sprinkles, lawn mowers, bulldozers, graders, fork-lifts, amphibian trucks and cranes if not
used in public highways, vehicles which run only on rails or tracks and tractors, trailers and
traction engines of all kinds used exclusively for agricultural purposes.

Note. Trailers having any number of wheels, when propelled or intended to be propelled by
attachment to a motor vehicle shall be classified as separate motor vehicle with no power
rating.

b. Passenger Automobiles – shall mean all pheumatic tire vehicle of types similar to those
usually known under the following terms: touring car, command car, speedster, sports car,
roadster, jeep, cycle car (excepts motor wheel and similar small outfits which are classified
with motorcycles), couple, landaulet, closed car, limousine, cabriolet and sedan.

The distinction between “Passenger Truck” and “Passenger Automobile” shall be that of
common usage. Provided that a motor vehicle registered for more than nine passengers
shall be classified as “Trucks”. Provided further, that a truck with seating compartment at
the back not used for hire shall be registered under special “S”classification. In case of
dispute, the Commissioner of LTO shall determine the classification to which any special
type of motor vehicle belongs.
c. Articulated Vehicle – shall mean any motor vehicle with a trailer having no front axle and so
attached that part of the trailer rests upon the motor vehicle and a substantial part of the
weight of the trailer and of its load is borne by the motor vehicle. Such trailer shall be called
as “semi-trailer.”
d. Driver – shall mean every and any licensed operator of a motor vehicle.
e. Professional Driver – every and any driver hired for driving or operating a motor vehicle,
whether for private use or for hire to the public. Any driver driving his own motor vehicle
for hire is a professional driver.
f. Owner – the actual legal owner of a motor vehicle, in whose name such vehicle is duly
registered with the LTO.
The owner of a government-owned motor vehicle, is the head of the office or the chief
of the bureau to which the said motor vehicle belongs.
g. Dealer – every person, association, partnership or corporation making, manufacturing,
constructing, assembling, remodeling or setting up motor vehicles; and every such entity
acting as agent for the sale of one or more makes, styles or kinds of motor vehicles, dealing
in motor vehicles, keeping the same in stock or selling same or handling with a view to
trading same.
h. Garage – any building in which two or more motor vehicles, either with or without drivers,
are kept ready for hire to the public, but shall not include street stands, public service
stations or other public places designed by proper authority as parking spaces for motor
vehicles for hire while awaiting or soliciting business.

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i. Gross Weight – the measured weight of a motor vehicle plus the maximum allowable
carrying capacity in merchandise, freight and/or passengers as determined by the
Commissioner of the LTO.
j. Highways – every public thoroughfare, public boulevard, driveway, avenue, park, alley and
callejon, but shall not include roadway upon grounds owned by private persons, colleges,
universities or other similar institutions.
k. Parking or parked – shall mean that a motor vehicle is parked or parking if it has been
brought to a stop on the shoulder or proper edge of a highway and remains inactive in that
place or close thereto for an appreciable period of time.

Note. A motor vehicle which properly stops merely to discharge a passenger or to take in a
waiting passanger or to load or unload small quantity of freight with reasonable dispatch shall
not be considered as parked, if the motor vehicle again moves away without delay.

l. Tourist – a foreigner who travels from place to place for pleasure or culture.

SELECTED PROVISIONS OF R.A. 4136

a. Exceeding Registered Capacity (0verloading). Passenger freight or cargo load of a motor

vehicle should not be more than its registered carrying cpacity. Conductors of public utility
trucks or buses are held liable for the overloading of vehicles under their charge.
All passenger automobiles for hire are required to have the registerd passenger
capacity marked plainly and conspicuously on the sides thereof in letters and numerals not
less than 5 cms. in height. Motor trucks for passenger or freight, private or for hire, shall
have the registered passenger or freight gross and net weight capacities marked plainly and
conspicuously on the sides thereof in letters and numerals not less than 5 cms. in height.
(Sec. 33)

b. Cargo Carrying Devices. The construction of devices for carrying cargo at the rear or sides of
trucks may be allowed, subject to the approval of the Commissioner, but the total net
weight of the device, inculding cargo, must not exceed 100 Kilos. (Sec. 32, a)
c. Riding on Running Board. It is strictly prohibited, except for conductors collecting passenger
fare (Sec. 32, c).
d. Riding onTop of the Motor Vehicle. Passengers shall not be allowed to ride on top of motor
vehicles, but baggage or freight may be carried on top of the truck, provided that the weight
thereof is not more than 20 kilos per square meter distributed in such a way as not to
endanger passengers or the vehicle’s stability (Sec. 32, b).
e. Required Motor Vehicle Accessories. Every motor vehicles when operated on a traffic way
should have the following specified accessories:
(1). Tires – motor vehicles having metallic tires are prohibited from operating on the public
highway. If the tires are solid, it should be thick enough to present the metal rims from
touching the road(Sec. 34).
(2). Brake – every motor vehicle with four or more wheels shall be provided with dual
hydraulic brake system so that in case of hydraulic line failure affecting the braking

30
 efficiency of any of the four wheels at least either the front or rear wheels shall retain
normal braking capabilities.
(3). Horns – every motor vehicle shall be provided with a horn or signaling device in good
order. Provided, however, that no horn or signaling device emitting exceptionally loud,
startling or disagreeable sound shall be installed or used on any motor vehicle.
(4). Headlight – the vehicle should have 2 headlights, one on each side, which must be
dimmed when meeting another vehicle.
(5). Tail Light – installed at the rear portion of the vehicle, this should be visible at least 100
meters away.
(6). Stop Light – installed also at the vehicle’s rear.

Note. Red lights are prohibited at the forward portion of the vehicle. Motorcycles must have
one head lamp and on tail light. Lights should be put on when a vehicle is parked or disabled.
Appropriate parking lights or flared are required for vehicles when parked or disabled in such a
way as not to endanger passing traffic (Sec. 34)

(7) Windshield Wiper – every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mechanically or
electrically operated device for wiping off raindrops or other moisture from its
windshied (Sec. 34, h).
(8) Use of Red Flag – whenever the load of any vehicle extends more than 1 meter
beyod the bed or body thereof, there shall be displayed at every projecting end of
such load, a red flag not less than 30 cms. both in lenght and width, except that
during the hours fixed under subsection (c), there shall displayed, in lieu of the red
flags, red lights visible at least 50 meters away.
(9) Mufflers – every motor vehicles propelled by an internal combustion engine shall be
equipped with a muffler and whenever said motor vehicle passes through a street of
any city, municipality or thickly populated district or barrio, the muffler shall not be
cut out or disconnected . No motor vehicle shall be operated in such a manner as to
cause it to emit or make any unnecessary or disagreeable odor, smoke or noise.

f. Hitching on to a Vehicle. The following practices are prohibited:

(1) Hanging on to or riding on the outside or rear end of any vehicle.
(2) Holding on to any moving vehicle whether on foot or otherwise.
(3) Driver allowing any person to hang on to or ride outside of or at the rear end of the
vehicle (Sec. 51)

g. Driving While under the Influence of Liqour or Other Prohibited Drugs. It is absolutely
prohibited to operate any motor vehicle under the influences of liquor or other prohibited
drugs (Sec. 53).
h. Obstruction of Traffic. Obstrution of traffic by operating a motor vehicle in such a manner as
to obstruct, block or impede the passage of another vehicle is prohibited. This prohibition
applies even when discharging or loading passengers (Sec. 54).
i. Duties of Driver in Case of Accident. In the event that any accident should occur as a result
of the operation of a motor vehicle upon a highway, the driver shall observe the following:

31
 1. Stop immediately.
2. Show his driver’s license to inspecting traffic law enforcer.
3. Give his true name and address, including that of the owner of the vehicle.
4. Assist injured persons.
5. Take measures to protect belongings of passengers.
6. Report the accident (Sec. 55).

j. When could a driver leave the area of accident without being held liable for HIT-AND-RUN?
1. His life is in imminent danger of being harmed by other person/s by reason of the
accident.
2. He surrenders to proper authority.
3. He summons the assistance of a physician or nurse to aid the victim.

Lesson 6
REGISTRATION OF MOTOR VEHICLE

R.A. 4136, mandates that all motor vehicles shall be registered by its owner before the
designated District Offices of the Land Transportation Office. Law enforcement offices should
keep themselves abreast with the proper procedures of registering motor vehicles for them to
easily identify unregistered motor vehicles or motor vehicles having expired registrations.
On the other hand, motor vehicle owners as well as drivers should be aware of the
provisions on motor vehicle registration to avoid unnessary delays and penalties whenever
registration related apprehensions occurs.

1. Classification of Registered Motor Vehicles

a. Private (not for hire) – these are motor vehicles used for the personal use of their
owners.
b. Public Utility Vehicles (PUV for hire) – these are registered primarily for the conveyance
of passengers and other commercial goods, i.e., passenger jeepneys, taxi cabs, etc.
c. Government – these are motor vehicles owned by government offices and are used for
official purposes only.
d. Diplomat – these are issued to foreign diplomats and consuls assigned in the Philippines.

2. Plate Numbers – upon registration, motor vehicles are assigned with plate numbers. The
letter and numeral prefixes as well as the assined colors are based on the date and place of
registrations and purpose of the registered motor vehicle.
a. Green with white background – issued to private or not for hire motor vehicles (MVs).
b. Black with yellow background – Issued to PUVs.
c. Red (maroon) with white background – Issued to government-owned MVs.
d. Blue with white background – assigned for foreign diplomats, consuls and other foreign
dignitaries.

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 e. Commemorative plate – these special plate numbers are issued for specific purposes
such as fund-raising for government projects and programs.

3. Schedule of Registration – registration of motor vehicles should be done annually which

follows the numerical suffixes of their plate numbers.

Last Digit of Plate Middle Digit of Plate Weekly Deadline

Number Number (Working days of the month
only)
1 – January 6 – June 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
2 – February 7 - July 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
3 – March 8 – August 7 8 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
4 – April 9 –September 9 0 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
5 - May 0 - October 29 30 31

Note: Vehicles may be registered one month in advance of weekly deadline. For motorcyles,
use the 3rd digit.

Example: Plate Number – TNG 984

The above motor vehicle shall be registered in April every year because the last digit is
“4” and the day of registration falls in April 15-21 since the middle digit is “8”.

4. Letter Prefixes on Plate Numbers. The letter prefixes indicates:

a. Place of initial registration of the motor vehicle.

b. Year of initial registration and the possible year model of the registered motor vehicle
could be determined from the order of the letter prefixes, i.e., the higher the letters the
later the year registration and year model of the motor vehicles.

Example: Vehicle 1 – PLT 255 Vehicle 2 – TNU 636

Between the above motor vehicles, Vehicles 1 was registered earlier than Vehicle 2 and
possibly, Vehicles 2’s model is later than Vehicles 1.

5. Special Plate Numbers for Government Officials

1 – President of the Philippines

2 – Vice President of the Philippines
3 – Senate President, etc.

6. Driver’s Licenses

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 Driving a motor vehicle in the philippines as in other countries is NOT a right but a
privilege granted by the Philippine Government through the LTO based on Republic Act 4136
and Batas Pambansa Blg. 398. Further , it is a privilege which may be suspended or revoked.

Driver’s Licenses - A document issued to a qualified driver who possesses the statutory
qualification as provided therefore. It is also a public document which has the legal
presumption of genuineness. (CCC Insurance Corp. vs. Court of Appeals, 31 SCRA 264)

A. Duty to Procure License. Sec. 19 of R.A. 4136 states that no person shall operate any motor
vehicle without first procuring a license to drive for the current year. To be effective in the
hands of its holder, must not be delinquent, invalid , suspended or revoked and should be
carried at all times and shall be shown or surrendered for cause when demanded by a
person authorized by RA 4136 to inspect the same.
B. Confiscation of Driver’s License. Sec. 29 of R.A. 4136 mandates that a driver license may be
confiscated for violations of RA 4136, the rules and regulations issued by the Commissioner
and local traffic rules and regulations.

When a driver’s license is confiscated for any reason, the traffic enforcer must,
however, issue a receipt Temporary Operator’s permit (TOP) which is good for 72 hours within
the driver may continue to operate his vehicle. Failure to settle the case within 15 days will
cause suspension or revocation of the license.

C. Types of Licenses, Procedure and Requirments. A driver licensed by the LTO as proof of his
proficiency in driving his knowledge of road rules and regulations while operating a motor
vehicle. Upon proving his proficiency and knowledge, he will be issued a document in the
form of the following licenses:

1. International Driver’s License – bonafide tourists and transients who are duly
licensed to operate motor vehicles in their respective countries may be allowed to
operate motor vehicles during their stay but not beyond 90 days of their sojourn in
the Philippines (Sec. 21, R.A. 4136). The applicant must submit the following
requirements:
 The original foreign license plus a photo copy of the same license.
 In the event that the foreign is written in the language of the lincese holder
other than ENGLISH, a translation of the contents of the license into ENGLISH
from the embassy from which the license was issued.
 In the event that the applicant applies for a license or if his foreign license is
expired at the time that the application is filed, the applicant will have to
undergo both a Written Examination and an Actual Road Test.
 An application form filled by the applicant.

Foreign license applicants can only be issued a NON-

Professional License.

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 2. Military Driver’s License – Enlisted personnel of the AFP operating motor vehicles
owned by the government shall be licensed in accordance with R.A. 4136 but no
license or delinquency fees shall be collected thereof.

All licenses so issued shall bear the words “FOR GOVERNMENT VEHICLES ONLY”
plainly marked or stamped in red inks across the face thereof. A Military Driver’s License
does not authorize the holder to operate a privately-owned motor vehicle (Sec. 20, R.A.
4136).

3. Professional Driver’s License – this license is issued to a driver hired or paid for
driving or operating a motor vehicle whether private use or for hire to the public.
Any person driving his own motor vehicle for hire is a professional driver (Sec. 3, e,
R.A. 4136).

Applicants for professional driver’s license should fulfill the following requirements:
a. Must be at least 18 years of age.
b. Presentation of either the following documents:
 A STUDENT PERMIT which has been issued in the possesion of the applicant for
at least 5 months.
 A NON-PROFESSIONAL Driver’s License that has been in the possession of the
applicant for not less than 4 months.

c. A certificate from an LTO accredited doctor attesting to the following that the
applicant:
 Is physically and mentally sound.
 Has normal, non-impaired vision and hearing.
 Does not have any contagious ailment.
 Does not have a history of heavy drinking and drug abuse.

d. A Police, NBI, or Prosecutor’s Clearance certifying that the applicant does

not have a criminal record or any case involving the taking of a human life.
e. He must pass a Written Examination.
f. To pass an actual ROAD TEST.
g. A application form (ADL) filled out by the applicant.
h. Payment of the following amount:
 Application fee: P 25.00
 Licensing fee: 240.00

Total P 265.00

Note: The professional driver’s license is renewable every 3 years. The identifying color is red.

35
 4. Non-Professional Driver’s License – this kind of license is issued to owners of
privately-owned motor vehicles or those not for hire or paid for driving (Sec. 3,e,
R.A. 4136). The applicant must fulfill the following requirements:
a. Must be at least 17 years of age.
b. A Student Driver’s Permit that has been issued not less than 1 month from the
date of application.
c. A certificate from an LTO accredited doctor attesting that the applicant:
 Is physically and mentally sound.
 Has normal vision and hearing.

d. Must pass a Written Examination.

e. Must pass an actual Road Test.
f. An application form (ADL) filled out by the applicant.
g. Payment of the following:
 Application fee: P 25.00
 Licensing fee: 180.00
Total P 205.00

Note: The holder of a Non-professional dirver’s license shall be restricted to operate motor
vehicles up to 4500 kgs gross vehicle weight (GVW) and is also renewable every 3 years. The
color of its logo is green.

5. Student Driver’s Permit – this kind of document is issued to persons who desire to
learn how to drive. A student driver cannot operate a vehicle unless accompanied
by an instructor who may either be a licensed professional or non-professional
driver (Sec. 30, R.A. 4136). The applicant must fulfill the following:
a. Must be at least 16 years of age.
b. Must be physically sound and in good health with no contagious ailments.
c. Must be mentaly capable.
d. Must know how to read and write in his native dialect , in Tagalog or in English.
e. Must apply personally at any LTO and have with him the following documents:
(1) Documents of birth proof that he is 16 years old, either of the following:
 Joint affidavit by 2 not related individuals attesting to the age of the applicant.
 SSS identification card.
 Passport
 Votor’s I.D.

(2) Applicants whose age is between 16 to 18 years old, an affidavit of consent signed
by the parents or by the applicant’s legal guardian allowing the applicant to learn
how to drive.

f. 2 pcs. 1x1 balck and white or color photographs of the applicant.

g. Payment of the following:

36
  Application fee P 25.00
 Student Permit fee P 50.00
Total P 75.00

Note: A student permit is valid for up to 12 months from the date issue. All fees are subject to
change upon approval of the government.

D. Driver’s Examination. All driver’s license applicants must obtain the passing score as follows:
1. The Written Examination – Written examinations will contain questions concerning
proper driving procedures, road rules and regulations, emergency procedures, etc..
Number of questions will be as follows:
 Non-Professional License - 40 questions
 Professional License - 60 questions

Examinees will have to pass the written examination with the following marks:
 Non-Profesional - 30 out of 40 questions
 Professional - 50 out of 60 questions

Before each examination, a Driving Skill Rater will provide a 30 minute lecture about
traffic rules and other driver information as a “reviewer” for the applicants.

2. The Road Test – The actual road test will be undertaken under the auspices of a “Driving
Skill Rater”. This actual road test will have to be scheduled in advance and the applicant
will have to provide the vehicle in which the road test will be conducted. The applicant
should make sure that the vehicle to be used is in proper working condition and is
currently registered.
During the road test, the applicants will be rated according to his proficiency on
the following aspects.
(1) That the applicant is aware of and capable of peforming a check on the primary
components of the vehicle such as the engine, the tires, the battery, lights,
winshield wipers, brakes, transmission and clutch, etc..
(2) Proper use and correct positioning of the hands on the steering wheel.
(3) Proper engine control and use of the gear shift lever and the foot pedals.
(4) Proper speed control and observance and practice of road discipline.
(5) Proper knowledge and interpretation of road signs and markings.
(6) Proper turning procedures.
(7) Proper backing procedures.
(8) Proper parking procedures.

The applicant will be credited with a score of 100 points at the start of the road test.
Each infraction or unsatisfactory performance will be listed down on a Road Test Score Sheet
and the corresponding deductions made at the end of the test.
The passing grade will be 70 points or a total possible deduction of 30 points.

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E. Mandatory Drug Test. It is mandatory to all driver’s license applicants exept for student
driver’s permit to pass a drug test conducted by duly LTO accredited drug testing centers.

F. Driver’s Registration Code. When the driver is issued a license, the driver’s restriction code
is indicated as follows:
1. Motorcycles/Motorised Tricycles.
2. Vehicle up to 4500 kgs Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW).
3. Vehicle above 4500 kgs GVW.
4. Automatic clutch up to 4500 kgs GVW.
5. Automatic clutch above 4500 kgs GVW.
6. Articulated Vehicle 1600 kgs GVW and below.
7. Articulated Vehicle 1601 kgs up to 4500 kgs GVW.
8. Articulated vehicle 4501 kgs and above GVW.
9. Disabled
G. Driver’s Condition. The conditions for driver’s license holder while operating a motor
vehicle are indicated as follows:
1. A – wear eye glasses.
2. B – drive only with special equipment for upper limbs.
3. C – drive only with special equipment for lower limbs.
4. D – daylights driving only.
5. E – accompanied by a person with normal hearing.

Lesson 7
GENERAL RULES OF ROAD USE AND CONDUCT

The traffic rules in the Philippines are based entirely on the general rules of road use
and conduct which also includes the general prohibitions and restrictions. Chapter IV, Articles I
to V of the R.A. 4136 comprehensively discuss the traffic rules observed in the Philippines.

1. Speed Limit and Other Rules on Speed. Any peson driving a motor vehicle on a highway shall
drive the same at a careful and prudent speed, not greater nor less than is reasonable and
proper, having due regard for the traffic, the width of the highway, and of any other
condition then and there existing; and no person shall drive any motor vehicle upon a
highway at such speed as to endanger the life, limb and property of any person, nor at a
speed greater than will permit him to bring the vehicle to a stop within the assured clear
distance ahead.

a. Maximum Allowable Speeds – subject to the provisions of the preceding paragraph, the
rate of speed of any motor vehicle shall not exceed the following per hour:

Passenger Car Motor Trucks

and and
Motorcycles Buses

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 (1) On open country roads, with no blind corners not
closely bordened by habitations 80 km. 50 km.
(2) On “through streets” or boulevards clear of traffic
, with no blind corners, when so designated. 40 km. 30 km.
(3) On city and municipal streets, with light traffic,
when not designated “through streets”. 30 km. 30 km.
(4) Through crowded streets, approaching intersections
at “blinds corners”, passing school zones, passing
other vehicles which are stationary, or for similar
dangerous circumstances. 20 km. 20 km.
b. Exception to the Speed Limit – the rates of speed herein above prescribed shall not
apply to the following:
 A physician or his driver when the former responds to emergency calls.
 The driver of a hospital ambulance on the way to and from the place of accident or
other emergency.
 Any driver bringing a wounded or sick person for emergency treatment to a hospital,
clinic or any other similar place.
 The driver of a motor vehicle belonging to the Armed Forces while in use for official
purpose in times of riot , insurrection or invasion.
 The driver of a vehicle, when he or his passengers are in pursuit of a criminal.
 A law-enforcement officer who is trying to overtake a violator of traffic laws.
 The driver officially operating a motor vehicle of any fire department, provided that
exemption shall not be construed to allow useless or unnecessary fast driving of drivers
aforementioned.

c. Uniform Speed Limits throughout the Philippines – no provincial, city or municipal

authority shall enact or enforce any ordinance or resolution specifying maximum
allowable speeds other than those provided by R.A. 4136.

2. Lateral Placement. Lateral placement means the proper positioning of the motor vehicle
while traversing on a traffic way or while on parked.

In the Philippines, unless a different course of action is required in the interest of the
safety and the security of life, person or property or because of unreasonable difficulty of
operation in compliance herewith, every person operating a motor vehicle or an animal-drawn
vehicle on a highway shall “pass to the right” when meeting persons or vehicles going the same
direction, and when turning to the left in going from one highway to another, every motor
vehicle shall be conducted to the right of the center of the intersection of the highway.
On the other hand, motor vehicles should be parked only on designated areas and so
properly parked without encroaching the parking stall or space of another vehicle. Refer to
figures 1, 2 and 3 for clearer understanding.

39
 Figure 1
Proper positioning while traversing Vehicles 1 and 2 are properly positioned while Vehicle 3 is
traversing dangerously at the separate lines.

Figure 2
Proper placement while on parallel parking vehicle 1 and 2 properly parked, whille vehicle 3
encroaches the other parking stall or space.

Figure 3
Proper Placement while parked diagonally Vehicle 1 and 2 are properly parked while Vehicle 3
is wrongly parked

3. Overtaking and Passing. In overtaking another vehicle, a driver should pass at a safe
distance to the left of the vehicle being overtaken and shall resume driving on the right side
of the road only after passing clear of the overtaken vehicle. See figure no. 1 for clearer
understanding.

40
 Figure no. 1

General Rule on overtaking passing Vehicle 1 can overtake Vehicle 2 using the left lane.

a. Exception. On the highways with two or more lanes where traffic goes in one
direction, another vehicle may be overtaken on the right (Sec. 39, R.A. 4136). See
figure at below for clearer understanding.

Figure no. 2
Overtaking on a four-lane two way street.

Vehicle1 can use the right lane(outer) in overtaking and passing Vehicle 2. Vehicle 2
here should not increase its speed. Vehicle 1 should not use the other inner lane in overtaking
Vehicle 2. Above portion of the illustration shows Vehicle 5 attempting to overtake Vehicle 4
using the shoulder of the road which is not only a violation of the rules but also dangerous
because he might hit something on the shoulder.

b. Driver to Give way to Overtaking Vehicle. The driver of a motor vehicle about to be
overtaken must give way to the ovetaking vehicle and shall not increase his speed
until the overtaking vehicles has fully passed by (Sec. 40, R.A. 4136).
c. Restrictions on Overtaking and Passing. To avoid accident or any unusual incidents,
overtaking and passing on the following places are restricted (Sec. 41, R.A. 4136).
(1) To the left side of the center line of a highway in overtaking another vehicle
proceeding in the same direction, unless such left side is clearly visible and is free
of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit safety overtaking.
Refer also to figure no. 2
(2) When approaching the crest of a grade, nor upon a curve in the highway, where
the driver’s view along the highway is obstructed within a distance of five
hundred feet ahead, except on a highway having two or more lanes for
movement of vehicles in one direction.

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 (3) At any railway grade crossing, nor at any intersection of highways, unless such
intersection or crossing is controlled by traffic signal or a traffic officer.
(4) Between any points indicated by the placing of official temporary or caution
signs indicating that men are working on the highways.
(5) In any “no passing or overtaking zone”

d. Right of Way – This principle refers to the legal or customary precedence (priority in
place or time) which allows one vehicle to cross or pass in front of another.

1. Rules on Right of Way. Sections 42-44, of R.A. 4136 provided for the rules on giving
the right of way.
a. In case of two vehicles approaching or entering an intersection at the same
time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right of way; however,
the driver of any vehicle travelling at an unlawful speed forfeits this right (Sec.
42,a).

Figure 1.a
First Geneal Rule on Giving the Right of Way
Vehicle 2 should yield the right of way to Vehicle 1 because the latter is approaching the
intersection from the right.

b. In the case of a vehicle approaching but has not yet entered the interection, its
driver shall yield the right of way to vehicles already within such intersection or
turning therein to the left accross the line of travel of the first mentioned
vehicle (Sec. 42, b). See figure at below.

Figure 1.b
Second general rule on giving the right of way

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 Vehicle 2 should be given the right of way to cross the intersection because it has already
entered the intersection ahead of Vehicle 1.

c. In case of a vehicle on a highway within a business or residential district, its

driver shall yield the right of way pedestrians crossing the highway within a
crosswalk, except at intersections where traffic is regulated by a peace officer or
a traffic signal. If there is no crosswalk, pedestrians shall yield the right of way
to vehicles on the highways (Sec. 42, c). See figure at below.

Figure 1. c.
Right of way rule on a crosswalk
Vehicle 1 should give the right of way to pedestrians crossing on the crosswalk across its path.

d. In case of a vehicle traversing a “thru-highway”, its driver should bring it to a full

stop before crossing. However, if it is clear and no hazard exist, the vehicle may
slow down to 5 miles per hour instead of a full stop (Sec. 42, d). See figure at
below.

Figure 1. d.
Right of way on “Thru Highway” intersections
Vehicle 1 should yield the right of way to Vehicle 2 because the latter is traversing on the main
highway.

2. Exception to the Right of Way Rule. Right of way rules do not apply in the case:
a. Of a vehicle entering from a private road or drive. The right of way is in favor of
all vehicles utilizing the highway. (Sec. 43). See figure at below.

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 Figure 2.a
Right of Way Rule on “Private Driveway” Intersections
Vehicle 1 should yield the right of way to Vehicle 2 because the former is approaching from a
private a private driveway.

b. The driver of a vehicle upon a highway shall yield the right way to police or fire
department vehicles and ambulances when such vehicles are operated on
official business and the drivers thereof sound audible signal of their approach.
c. The driver of a vehicle entering a “through highway” or a “stop intersection”
shall yield the right of way to all vehicles approaching in either direction on such
“through highway”.

3. Starting, Stopping or Turning Rule. The driver of any motor vehicle on a highway,
before starting, stopping or turning from shall first see that such movement can be
made safely; and if any pedestrian is affected by such movement, he shall give a
clearly audible signal by sounding the vehicle’s horn.
a. When other Motorists are affected – Whenever the operation of any other
approaching or following may be affected by such movement, the driver making
the movement shall give a signal other driver’s of his intention to make such
movement (Sec. 44, a)
b. Hand Signal – the required signal shall be given by means of extending the hand
or arm beyond the left side of the vehicle or by an approved mechanical or
electricla signal device (Sec. 44, b). See figures at below.

Figure 3, b, 1
Standard Hand Signal when turning to the Left

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 Figure 3,b, 2
Standard Hand Signal when turning to the Right

Figure 3,b, 3
Standard Hand Signal when about to Stop

c. Making a Right Turn (Normal Procedures) – the following are the rules to be
observed in making a correct turning to the right from a four-lane street to a
four-lane four-lane street.
(1) Signal your intention to turn right with your turning signal light or a hand
signal at least 100 ft. before you intend to make your turn.
(2) Stay on the right laneof the road.
(3) Never make a right turn from left lane.
(4) At an intersection with a red traffic light, make a right turn only after coming
to a full stop to make sure that no vehicle is coming from the left.
(5) If there is a sign prohibiting a right turn unless the light is Green, Do not turn
right while the Red Light is On. See figure at below

Figure
Making a Right Turn from a four-lane street to four-lane street
Vehicles 2 and 3 are doing the proper way of turining to the right, whereas Vehicle 1 is doing it
the wrong way.

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 d. Making a Left Turn (Normal Procedures) – Motor vehicles intending to turn left
from a four-lane street to four-lane street should obseve the following
procedures:
(1) Signal your intention to turn Left with your turning signal or a hand signal at
least 100 feet before you intended to make your turn.
(2) Stay on the Left lane of the road.
(3) Never make a Left turn from the right lane.
(4) At an intersection with a traffic light, vehicles going straight have the righ of
way. Wait for them to pass first before you turn left.
(5) At an intersection with a traffic light, make a Left turn only when the green
light is On or when there is a Left turn Light. See figure at below.

Figure
Making a Left turn from a four-lane street to four-lane street
Vehicle 1 is making a left turn the correct way, while Vehicles 2 and 3 are doing it the wrong
way.

e. Making a U-Turn on a Two-lane Road (Normal Procedure) – following is the

recommended procedure in making a U-Turn on Two lane road:
(1) Make a right turn signal at least 100 ft before you start moving to the right
side of the road.
(2) Stay as close to the right side as possible. Come to a complete stop if
necessary. Check behind you for traffic. Also check for oncoming traffic on
the other lane.
(3) Once all traffic has passed you, initiate your U-turn. See to it that you can
make it in one “sweep”. If you have a long vehicle, look for an intersection
or a wide section of the road to make a U-Turn in.
(4) At this point, you should be making the U-turn if you know the turning
radius of your vehicle.
(5) Do not move immediately to the middle of the road. Keep to the right side
until you have increased your speed sufficiently to move to the middle of
the lane. See figure at below.

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 Figure
Making a U-Turn on a Two-Lane Road
f. Making a U-Turn on a Four-Lane Highway (Normal Procedure). Following is the
correct procedure:
(1) Check for traffic behind you and indicate your intentions with a Left turn
signal. If no fast vehicles, stay on the Left lane.
(2) Clear the “other side” for oncoming traffic and initiate your turn as soon as
it is clear. Do not come to a complete stop. Straighten out on the right lane
and begin gaining speed.
(3) As soon as you have reached a relatively safe speed, signal your intention to
move to the fast lane with a left turn signal.
(4) Move to the fast lane as soon as you are fast enough to hold up traffic
moving in the same direction. See figure at below.

Figure
Making a U-Turn on a Four-Lane Highway

4. Pedestrians Rights and Duties. Pedestrians have the right to occupy or pass on
spaces or portions of traffic way allocated for them like crossing on pedestrian lanes
and passing on sidewalks or catwalks. In addition, pedestrians, as part of the traffic
system, their fundamental duty is to observe and obey al traffic rules and
regulations. Motorists should also know the rights of the pedestrians so that they
will not be using the portions of the traffic way allocated for the pedestrians for
parking purposes.
5. General Parking Rules and Similar Regulations. Motor vehicles should park only on
areas specifically designated for parking. All accidents are not caused while vehicles
are being driven. A parked vehicle may create an accident, kill someone or destroy
property. Before leaving your vehicle, set the brakes, put the gear in low or reverse
or park position and remove the key. This will prevent your car from rolling down
an incline and will also prevent cars from pushing your car.

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a. Parking on Cities – In Cities and towns, unless otherwise directed by a city or
municipal ordinance, motor vehicles will be parked parallel and within 12 inches
of the curb. For additional pre-caution while parking, obeserve the following:
 Downhill with or without curb-turn wheels to right.
 Uphill curb with curb – turn wheels from curb.
 Uphill without curb – turn wheels to curb.

b. Parking on a Highway – On rural roads, pull entirely off movement to park.

Whenever practicable, turn on your parking lights.
c. Parking Prohibited in Specified Places – No driver shall park a vehicle or permit
it to stand, whether attended or unattended, upon a highway in any of the
following places.
 Within an intersection.
 On a crosswalk.
 Within six meters of the intersection of curb lines.
 Within four meters of the driveway entrance to any fire station.
 Within four meters of a fire hydrant.
 In front of a private driveway.
 On the roadway side of any vehicle stopped or parked at the curb or edge of the
highway.
 At any place where official signs have been erected prohibiting parking. See
figure at below.

Figure
Prohibited Parking Places

Lesson 8
FUNDAMENTALS OF TRAFFIC CONTROL

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Traffic Control – Generally, it refers to procedures, devices and communication systems that
help vehicles and vessels safely share the same roads, rails, waterways or air space. Traffic
control establishes a set of rules and instructions that drivers, pilots, train engineers and ship
captains rely on to avoid collisions and other hazards. Safe travel for pedestrians is an
additional goal in highway traffic control.

1. Traffic Control as applied to Land Transportation. A system of traffic engineering, employing

prescribed rules and regulations and devices such as signals and markings, to relieve
vehicular congestion and air pollution and to promote safety and pedestrian mobility,
usually in heavily populated urban areas. In smaller towns, with lighter traffic, similar but
simpler control devices and engineering techniques are used.
2. Control Techniques. The primary emphasis of traffic control is on the safe and efficient flow
of cars, buses, vans and lorries over urban streets and highways. The means of promoting
this can vary from simple improvement of local streets by installing traffic signs and road
markings to constructing comprehensive motorway control systems. These systems are:
 Access-roads meters to monitor and control motorway.
 Closed-circuit television surveillance to detect quickly any deterioration in traffic
flow.
 Emergency services in case of accident and injury.

3. Other Traffic-Control Techniques include:

a. The use of one-way streets.
b. Enforcement of traffic flow regulations.
c. Channelization (building traffic islands, turning lanes and so on)
d. The use of traffic signals.

4. Highway Traffic Control. Motorists depend on traffic control devices to avoid collisions and
travel safely to their destinations. Traffic control devices for highway travel include signs,
signal lights, pavement marking and a variety of devices placed on, over, near or even
under, the roadway.
a. Traffic Signs – Traffic signs are the most extensively used form of traffic control in the
United States. More than 55 million traffic signs line the nation’s roadside. They provide
information about speed limits and road conditions. They direct traffic along certain
routes and to specific destinations. By using signs, traffic control planners tell drivers
what to do, what to watch for, and where to drive.
b. Pavement Markings – Pavement markings separate opposing streams of traffic and
direct vehicles into proper positions on the roadway. For example, pavement markings
delineate turn lanes at intersections and establish no-passing zones. White and yellow
paint is customarily used for pavement markings. Reflective devices are more visible at
night and are used in some locations to mark lanes and other significant places on the
road.
Traffic signs and road markings follow a uniform practice throughout the world
and are designed to convey information with a minimum of words to avoid confusing

49
 drivers unfamiliar with the area and the language. Uniform pictorial signs and markings
have been adopted throughout Europe and United States. They inlcude uniform sign
formats and sizes and uniform codes regulating traffic flow.
c. Traffic Signal – Trafic signals are installed to permit safe movement of vehicles and
pedestrians at busy intersections. The signal light is probably the most easily recognized
traffic control device. At a busy intersection in a large city, a traffic signal may control
the movements of more than 100,000 vehicles per day. More than 60 percent of all
miles driven each year are on roadways controlled by traffic signals.
Traffic Signals direct streams of vehicles and pedestrians when to go, stop or
proceed with caution. The signals increase the traffic-handling capacity of most
intersections. They can work independently on timers or connect to computer-
controlled system that operates over several intersections.
d. Priority Control – In one of the oldest method of traffic control, one form of
transportation is given priority by restricting or banning other forms of transportation.
In the 1st century BC, Roman Emperor Julius Caesar banned wheel traffic form Rome
during daytime, which allowed pedestrians and horse riders to move freely around the
city. Some modern cities ban or restrict truck ravel through certain neighborhoods.
Bus –lanes and High Occupancy Vehicles (HOV)lanes exists in many urban areas.
Only specified types of vehicles, primarily those carrying several occupants, can use
these lanes. By giving priority to high-Occupancy Vehicles, transportation planners
encourage carpooling and reduce congestion.
e. Restraints – as an alternative to banning traffic, traffic control planners use devices to
discourage heavy use of a route. Island built in the centers of intersections force drivers
to proceed slowly. Speed bumps discourage high-speed commuting through residential
neighborhoods. Concrete median strips prevent vehicles from making turns except at
intersections.

Lesson 9
TRAFFIC SIGNS

Traffic Signs – like traffic signal lights and local markings are used to convey quickly and
accurately the wide range of information needed by road users, particularly vehicle drivers, and
to promote a safe and efficient use of the road system.
Traffic Signs refer to any device mounted on portable support whereby a message is
conveyed by means of words or symbols officially installed for the purpose of regulating,
warning or guiding traffic. Traffic signs are installed to serve the following functions:
a. To control traffic.
b. To safeguard the flow of traffic.
c. To expedite traffic.
d. To guide traffic and motorists.

Standardization of traffic signs shall conform to the standards set forth in the erection

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and display of standard road signs and markers as prescribed by the DPWH as to shape, color,
dimension, shape,size, height, lettering or symbols. See figures 1,2 and 3 at below.

Figure 1
Triangular and Inverted Triangle Traffic Signs

Figure 2

Figure 3
Rectangular Traffic Signs

Traffic signs shall be installed only under public authority or by the official having
jurisdiction for that purpose, and it shall not bear any commercial advertisement.
A thorough knowledge of traffic signs, signals and road and pavment markings is
necessary to all drivers. Every motorists must be able to recognize and obey them without
hesitation even with the absence of traffic police officer.

A. Historical Background – In Britain, early sign posts were erected by private iindividuals at
their own expense. In 1648, parishes were required by law to place guide posts at
crossroads. In 1773, these and miles posts were required to be erected and maintained by

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Turnpike Trusts. The Motor Car Act of 1903 made local authorities responsible for placing
certain warning and prohibitory signs.

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