Traffic Management and Accident Investigation

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

Operation pertains to a course or series of acts to effect a certain purpose; manner of action; or a vital
or natural process of activity.
Roadway refers to that part of the traffic way over which motor vehicle pass.
Shoulder it refers to either side of the roadway, especially along highways.
Traffic refers to the movement of persons, goods, or vehicle, either powered by combustion system or
animal draw, from one place to another for the purpose of travel.
TrafficWay refers to the entire width between boundary lines of every way or place of which any part is
open to the use of the public for purposes of vehicular traffic as a matter of right or custom.
Traffic Management is designed to make the traffic way safer for travelers, expedite the movement of
traffic, and to provide convenience to the traffic facilities users.
Major
1.
2.
3.
4.

Causes of Traffic Congestion

Physical Inadequacy
Poor Control Measures
Human Errors
Poor Maintenance

Agencies Involved in Traffic Management

1. Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC)
2. City or Municipal Engineers Office
3. Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)
4. Legislative (Congress/City or Municipal Boards)
5. Philippines National Police (PNP)
6. Academic Institution
7. Courts
8. Public Information Offices
9. Citizen Support Groups
10. Media
11. Other agencies
5 Pillars of Traffic
1. TrafficEngineering 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.
2. TrafficEducation the process of giving training and practice in the actual application of traffic
safety knowledge.
3. TrafficEnforcement deals on the implementation and enforcement of traffic laws and rules and
regulations.
4. TrafficEcologyorTrafficEnvironment 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.
5. Traffic Economy deals with the benefits and adverse effects of traffic to our economy.
TrafficSafetyEducation is the process of training roads users in the avoidance and prevention of trafficrelated accidents.
Road Safety 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.
4 Basic Types of Instruction Methods (used in driver education program)
1. Comprehensive places the student into real life of driving situations from the beginning.
2. Traditional Instruction depends on instructor-student communication
3. Commentary Driving Method student-driver accompanied by an instructor
4. Simulated Conditions On and Off the Road Training
Biorhythm - theory which asserts that man exhibits a constant variation of life energy and mood states.
Safety Campaign a mass publicity aimed to make road users behave more safely, also known as road
propaganda.
Traffic Laws, Rules and Regulations
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, motorcycle 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.
e. R.A. 8750. It provides for the attachment of seat belts for all types of motor vehicle and imposes
penalty for the non-compliance thereof.
f. R.A. 7924. The Act creating the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, defining its powers
and functions, providing funds thereof 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 bell, 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 Departments and are specially 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 vehicle 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 vehicle against third party
liability as an additional pre-requisite for registration by the LTO.
e. P.D. 1686. Imposing a tax on every motor vehicle equipped with air conditioner.
f. P.D. 1181. Providing for the abatement of air pollution from motor vehicles and for other purposes.
g. P.D. 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. 98. Regulating the issuance of license plates of all motor vehicles.
i. P.D. 109. Modifying P.D. 98.
j. P.D. 1729. Authorizing the Bureau of Land Transportation to dispose of impounded motor vehicles
unclaimed by owners for a certain period of time.
k. P.D. 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. 716. Every motor vehicle to equip at least a pair of early warning device.
e. L.O.I. 551. Directing the law enforcement agencies to implement the Pollution Control Program.
f. L.O.I. 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. 1009. All owners of private motor vehicles who desire to stop operating or using their
number plates and registration certificates to surrender to BLT.
h. L.O.I. 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 vehicle
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 Transportation 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 dtd 09 August 1975.
Directing that motor vehicles whose loads are rice, cereals, fertilizers and other prime commodities
are not to be apprehended and stopped 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 tricycle
under R.A. 4136, and guidelines to implement devolution of LTFRBs Franchising Authority over TCs
per R.A. 7160 issued by DOTC.
e. M.C. 94-188. Issuance of drivers license to disabled persons.
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.
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 Provision of R.A. 4136.
Words and Phrases used in R.A. 4136
1. Motor Vehicle any vehicle propelled by any power other than muscular power using the public
highways, but excepting road rollers, trolley cars, street-sweepers, sprinklers, lawn mowers,
bulldozers, graders, folk-lifts, amphibian trucks, and cranes if not used in public highways, vehicle
which run only on rails or tracks, and tractors, trailers and traction engines of all kinds used
exclusively for agricultural purposes.
2. Passenger Automobiles all pneumatic tire vehicles of types similar to those usually known
under the following terms: touring car, command car, speedster, sports car, roadster, jeep, cycle
car (except motor wheel and similar small outfits which are classified with motorcycles), coupe,
landaulet, closed car, limousine, cabriolet, and sedan.
3. Articulated Vehicle any motor vehicle with a trailer having no front axle 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.
4. Driver shall mean every and any licensed operator of a motor vehicle.
5. Professional Driver every and any driver hired for driving or operating a motor vehicle, whether
for private use or for hire to the public.
6. Owner actual legal owner of a motor vehicle, in whose name such vehicle is duly registered with
the LTO.
7. 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.
8. 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 designated by proper authority as parking spaces for motor vehicles for hire while
awaiting or soliciting business.
9. Gross Weight measured weight of a motor vehicle.

10.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 institution.
11.Parking or Parked motor vehicle 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.
12.Tourist a foreigner who travels from place to place for pleasure or culture.
Selected Provisions of R.A. 4136
1. Exceeding Registered Capacity (Overloading) passengers, freight or cargo load of a motor
vehicle should not be more than its registered carrying capacity.
2. Cargo Carrying device 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, including cargo, must not exceed 100 Kilos (Sec. 32,a).
3. Riding on Running Board is strictly prohibited, exiept for conductors collecting passenger fare
(Sec. 32,c).
4. Riding on Top of the Motor Vehicle passenger 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 vehicles stability (Sec. 32,b).
5. Required Motor Vehicle Accessories.
a. Tires
b. Brake
c. Horns
d. Headlight
e. Tail Light
f. Stop Light
g. Windshield Wiper
h. Use of Red Flag
i. Mufflers
6. Hitching on to a Vehicle. The following practice are prohibited:
a. Hanging on
b. Holding on
c. Driver allowing any person to hang
7. Driving while under the Influence of Liquor or Other Prohibited Drugs.
8. Obstruction of Traffic
9. Duties of Driver in Case of Accident
a. Stop immediately.
b. Show his drivers license to inspecting traffic law enforcer.
c. Give his true name and address, including that of the owner of the vehicle.
d. Assist injured persons.
e. Take measuresto protect belongings of passengers.
f. Reportthe accident (Sec. 55).
10. When could a driver leave the area of accident without being held liable for HIT-ANDRUN?
a. His life is in imminent danger of being harmed by other person/s by reason of the accident;
b. He surrenders to proper authority; and
c. He summons the assistance of a physician or nurse to aid the victim.
Registration of Motor Vehicles
Classification of Registered Motor Vehicles
1. Private (not for hire)
2. Public Utility Vehicles (PUV a.k.a. for hire)
3. Government
4. Diplomat
Plate
1.
2.
3.
4.

Numbers
Green with white background issued to private or not for hire motor vehicles (MVs).
Black with yellow background issued to PUVs.
Red (maroon) with white background issued to government-owned MVs.
Blue with white background assigned for foreign diplomats, consuls and other foreign
dignitaries.
5. Commemorative plate these plate numbers are issued for specific purposes such as fundraising for government projects and programs.

Schedule of Registration
Last Digit of Plate
Number
1
2
3
4
5

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May

6 Jun
7 Jul
8 Aug
9 Sep
0 Oct

Middle Digit
of plate Number
1
4

2
5
7
9

3
6
8
0

weekly Deadline
(working days of the
Month only)
12 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 1011 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 2324 2526 27 28
29 30 31

Note: Vehicles may be registered one month in advance of weekly dealing. For motorcycles, use the 3 rd
digit.
Letter Prefixes on Plate Numbers.
The letter prefixes indicates:
1. Place of initial registration of the motor vehicles;
2. Year of initial registration and the possible year model of the registered motor vehicle could be
determined from the order of the letter prefixes.
3. Special Plate Numbers for Government Officials
1 President of the Philippines
2 Vice President of the Philippines
3 Senate President, etc.
Drivers License - 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.
Types
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

of License
International Drivers License
Military Drivers License
Professional Drivers License
Non-Professional Drivers License
Student Drivers Permit

Drivers Examination
1. The Written Examination
2. The Road Test
Drivers Restriction Code
1. Motorcycle/Motorized 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 kgsGVW & below
7. Articulated vehicle 1601 up to 4500 kgs GVW
8. Articulated vehicle 4501 kgs& above GVW
9. Disabled
Drivers Condition
A wear eye glasses
B drive only with special equipment for upper limbs
C drive only with special equipment for lower limbs
D daylight driving only
E accompanied by a person with normal hearing.
General Rules of Road Use and Conduct
Speed Limit and other Rules on Speed
1. Maximum Allowable Speeds
2. Exception to the speed limit
3. Uniform Speed Limits throughout the Philippines
TrafficControl 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.
Traffic Control as Applied to Land Transportation
A system of traffic engineering, employing prescribed traffic 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.
Control Techniques
1. access-road meters to monitor and control motorway;
2. closed-circuit television surveillance to detect quickly any deterioration in traffic law
3. emergency services in case of accident and injury
Other
1.
2.
3.
4.

Traffic-control techniques include:

the use of one-way streets,
enforcement of traffic flow regulations,
channelization (building traffic islands, turning lanes and so on), and
the use of traffic signals

Highway Traffic control

1. Traffic Signs
2. Pavement Markings
3. Traffic-Signal
4. Priority Control
5. Restrains
TrafficSigns 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.
Purpose
1. To
2. To
3. To
4. To

of Traffic Signs
control traffic
safeguard the flow of traffic
expedite traffic
guide traffic and motorists

International Traffic Signs

1. Roundandredsign: regulates the movement of turning and passing traffic regulations;
2. Round black yellow signs: a warning that you are approaching a railroad crossing;
3. Equilateral triangle red signs: a sign at the intersection directing drivers to yield the right-ofway to vehicles in the road being crossed;
4. Eight-sided (octagonal) red and white stop sign: the most popular and understood sign by all
tongues and colors; and
5. Triangle red and black sign: approaching a danger zone, hill, slope, winding road, and others.
Classification of International Traffic Signs
1. Dangerwarningsigns also known as caution signs, these signs have an equilateral triangular
shape with one side horizontal and having red boarders.
2. Regulatorysigns are signs which impose legal restrictions applicable at particular location
usually enforceable in the absence of such signs, intended to:
a. Inform road users of certain laws and regulations, and
b. Special obligations, instructions, or prohibitions which they must comply with and violation
of which constitute misdemeanor.
3. Informativesigns also known as guide signs. Or direction signs, intended to:
a. Guide motorists along established routes,
b. Inform the motorists of the proper roads, and
c. Help motorists along the way in the most simple and direct method.
TrafficLights refers to any power operated traffic control device by which traffic is warned or directed to
take some specific actions. Traffic light signals are used to control traffic at junctions and also traffic to
provide safe crossing points for pedestrians and cyclists.
The color of traffic lights are chronologically arranged to give motorists better view of signal lights, from
the stop, the series of color is Red, Yellow, and Green. If there is a left or right arrow, the color alternates
from green, yellow and red light.
Classification of Traffic Signal Lights.
1. TrafficControlSignals are signals lights designed primarily to control and regulate traffic flows.
2. SpecialPedestrianSignal provides regulation for pedestrians like the WALK and DO NOT
WALK signal lights.
3. TrainApproachandGatesSignals are usually installed on road-rail intersections designed to
inform motorists of any approaching train on the intersection.
4. OtherSpecialTrafficSignals installed on traffic ways where special regulations are emphasized
like YIELD TO VEHICLES COMING FROM THE LEFT, and other similar regulations.
Traffic Signal System.
1. TheFixed-timeSystem traffic control signal by which traffic is alternately commanded to stop
and permitted to proceed in accordance with predetermined time schedule.
2. Progressive System are used on major arteries of a number of cities.
3. Computerized Control of Signal Networks signal changes are ordered by the demands of
traffic and are directed by computers that operate on the basis of traffic information relayed from
vehicle sensors on the streets.
Specific Meaning of Traffic Lights.
1. SteadyRed.
a. STOP at the designated line.
b. Vehicles will be crossing from the other side.
c. Expect pedestrians to cross at the pedestrian lane.
d. Unless specified, you can TURN RIGHT after a FULL STOP to clear traffic coming from left.
2. Steady Green.
a. GO
b. It is the turn of the vehicles on the other side to STOP.
c. Pedestrians are not allowed to cross the pedestrian

d. Unless specified, you can move up to the middle section of the intersection and make a left turn
when clear.
e. Vehicles GOING STRAIGHT have the right to way.
f. DO NOT ANTICIPATE A GREEN LIGHT.
3. Steady Green Arrow.
a. GO
b. Vehicles turning left can do so.
c. On coming straight traffic is still RED to give way for the vehicle turning left.
d. DO NOT ANTICIPATE A GREEN ARROW.
4. Steady Yellow.
a. PREPARE TO STOP.
b. It is the turn of the vehicles on the other side and will be given the GO signal shortly.
c. DO NOT BEAT A YELLOW LIGHT.
5. Flashing Red.
a. This is the same as a STOP SIGN.
b. STOP at the designated line.
c. Vehicles will be crossing from the other side.
d. Expect pedestrian to cross at the pedestrians lane.
e. PROCEED WHEN CLEAR.
6. Flashing yellow.
a. This is the same as a YIELD SIGN.
b. Proceed through the intersection with CAUTION.
c. You have the right of way over a flashing RED LIGHT.
d. Vehicle on the other side will proceed after coming to a FULL STOP.
7. Steady Green and Steady Left/Right Arrow.
a. Vehicles can go straight or vehicles on the left lane can make a left turn.
b. Vehicles can go straight or vehicles on the right lane can make a right turn.
c. The RIGHT GREEN signal might or might NOT have a road sign disallowing a right turn while thr RED
light is ON.
Pavement Markings - these pertain to all lines, patterns, words, colors, or other gadgets except signs set
into the surface or applied upon or attached to the pavement or curbing or to object within or adjacent to
the roadway, officially placed for the purpose of regulating, warning or guiding traffic.
Types of Pavement Markings and Markers - pavement marking and markets are further classified into
the following depending on their purpose and location of placement.
1. PavementMarkings. These are the lines usually white and yellow or a combination of yellow and
white officially set on the roadway as separation for motor vehicles traveling in the opposite
direction or the same direction in case of two-lane one way street, two-lane two-way street or fourlane two- way street.
2. CurbMarkingsforRestrictions. These are markings placed on the curbs or edges of the traffic for
restriction or for parking regular purposes.
3. ObjectMarkings. These are markings placed on objects on the road or beside the rode like humps,
rocks, similar hazardous objects on the side of the road.
4. ReflectorizedMarkings. These are markings or gadgets designed to reflect and become luminous
when hit by vehicles headlight. These are placed or installed in the middle of the roadway to
supplement separation lines or on object at the side of the roadway which are too near or within the
road pavement itself.
SpecificMeaningofPavementMarkings
1. Single White Dotted Line.
a. on two-lane road, it separates traffic moving in opposite direction.
b. on a one-way street, separates traffic moving in one direction.
c. overtaking is possible when other lane is clear of oncoming possible.
2. Single White Continuous Line in A Two-lane Traffic Way.
a. separates traffic moving in opposite direction.
b. could be found in road section that are dangerous.
c. passing and overtaking can be made but ONLY under circumstances when there is no
oncoming traffic.
3. Single Continuous Line On a Four-lane Road.
a. when there are slow and fast lanes, NEVER overtake by passing over the solid white line.
b. lanes 1 & 4 (outer lanes) for slow moving vehicles. Vehicles on this lane should not be
BELOW the minimum speed limit.
c. lanes 2 & 3 (inner lanes) are usually for faster moving vehicles.
4. Double Yellow Line or Double White Line.
a. ABSOLUTELY NO OVERTAKING
b. overtaking is extremely dangerous.
c. stay in your lane until you pass the end of the solid lines.
5. Single Yellow/White Line.
1. that you cannot overtake if the solid line is on your side.

2. if you overtake, return to your lane BEFORE the solid line

6. Yellow Continuous Line on Road Provided with a Passing Lane.
a. These are common on mountain roads.
b. Slow moving vehicles such as buses and
c. Heavy trucks should always use the outer lane
d. Inner lane (lane 2) is for vehicles to pass without having to use the other lane (lane 1) for
vehicles coming from the opposite direction.
e. Vehicles coming from the opposite direction (lane 1) should not use the inner lane (lane 2) at
the other side for overtaking.
7. Crosswalk or Pedestrian Lane
a. for pedestrian to cross
b. stop for pedestrian on an intersection with no traffic light
c. DO NOT STOP on pedestrian lane especially to load or unload passengers
d. pedestrians should ALWAYS cross on a crosswalk
8. Directional Arrows
a. directions of permitted traffic movement.
b. when approaching intersections where pavement arrows are used, you should enter the
lane where the arrow points in the direction you want to go
c. if you get in the wrong lane, you should keep going in the direction indicated by the arrow
until it is safe to turn off and get back on the street or highway which will carry you to your
destination
d. some have double headed arrows which means the lane is for traffic going in the two
directions indicated
9. Stop Lines are painted across pavement lanes at traffic signs or signals, you should stop behind
the stop line
10. The Barrel Lines engineered to act as impact cushion, usually installed in front of a solid
obstacles or traffic island at an area of high accident frequency
Traffic Islands are areas within the roadway constructed in a manner to establish physical channels
through which vehicular traffic is guided.
Functions of Traffic Islands
1. segregate pedestrians and vehicles; and
2. control streams of traffic in order to minimize conflict, expedite traffic flow or increase safety
Classification of Traffic Island
1. Pedestrian Island (Pedestrian Barriers)
2. Traffic Islands
Sub-classification of Traffic Islands
a. Division Islands
b. Channelizing Islands
c. Rotary Islands
Traffic Law Enforcement Traffic Law enforcement action is part of enforcement involving the arrest,
issuance of Temporary Operators Permit (TOP) or Inspection Report Summons, or warning of any person
who is believed to have violated a law, ordinance, or regulation pertaining to the use of traffic roads.
Scope of Traffic Law Enforcement
1. The action taken by the police and the court to compel obedience to traffic laws and ordinances
regulating the movement and use of motor vehicles for the purpose of creating a deterrent to
unlawful behavior by all potential violators.
2. Enforcement of traffic legislation is an area of activity aimed at controlling road users, let behavior
by preventive persuasive and punitive methods on order to effect a safe and efficient traffic
movement; and
3. It applies to all statutes, ordinances and legally authorized regulations relating to the use of street
and highways and operation of motor vehicles.
Two Major Functions of Traffic Law Enforcement
1. Police Traffic Law Enforcement the enforcement of traffic laws deterrent to law violations,
special assistance to prosecutors and courts and incidental service to highway users
2. Court Traffic Law Enforcement performed by the court through PROSECUTION, ADJUDICATION
and PENALIZATION of cases.
Three
1.
2.
3.

Important Goals of Enforcement Activities

To increase safety level
To increase traffic efficiency
To insure harmonious and comfortable environment

Major Elements of Traffic Enforcement System

1. Enforcement System consists of legislation, police and the courts
2. Road Users System (Traffic Way Users) includes pedestrians, pedal cyclist, drivers,
passengers and others
3. Road System (Traffic System) composed of the entire road and vehicle complex, as well as all
traffic rules and regulations.

Five Essential Steps in the Enforcement Process.

1. Detection (of violation)
2. Apprehension
3. Prosecution
4. Adjudication
5. Penalization
Reason for Violation of Traffic Laws
1. Physical disabilities or infirmities
2. Ignorance of traffic
3. Lack of training and experience
4. Wrong attitudes towards driving
5. PUV drivers for increased compensation
6. Drivers apathy towards signs, signal and markings
7. Influential person violate because they feel they are exempted from punishment
Consideration that act as deterrents to motorists and pedestrian
1. Fear of fine or punishment
2. Loss of driving privilege
3. Possibility of being involved in accidents
4. Positive area of good citizenship doing what is right and setting an example
Kinds
1.
2.
3.

of Enforcement Action
Traffic Arrest
Traffic Citation
Traffic Warning

DecisionEnforcement
1. Degree of violation;
2. Accuracy of observation;
3. Traffic and weather condition;
4. Evidence gathered;
5. Whether a new law or not; and
6. Continuous or momentary actions, a factor in some type of violation.
Itemized Identification Features of the Vehicle
a. Color
b. Year of Manufacture
c. Make Honda, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Isuzu, etc..
d. Body Type
e. License Plate Number
f. Outstanding Features and Accessories
g. Unusual Features of the Driver or Passenger
Road Check
1. Objectives of road check
a. Faulty vehicle equipment
b. Registration and licensing violations
c. Intoxicated drivers
d. The load or cargo of commercial transportation vehicle for load weight
2. Consideration to be taken
a. Minimum delay to motorist
b. Thorough checking procedure
c. Protection/safety of both motorist and officers
d. Timing, location and frequency
Intersection as applied to a street or highway means the space occupied by two streets at the point
where they cross each other, usually is the place where traffic direction and traffic control needed.
PoliceTrafficDirection defined as telling drivers and pedestrians when, how and where they may not
have move or stand at a particular place, especially during emergencies or period of congestion
Who are tasked to direct and guide traffic?
In the Philippines, traffic officers are usually deputized by the Land Transportation Office who
normally comes from the PNP-TMG, police auxiliaries, MMDA Traffic Management Section.
TrafficPatrol refers to the observation of road conditions, the behavior of the drivers and other users of
vehicles for the purpose of traffic supervision and law enforcement and providing authorized trafficconnected services to the public.
Types of Traffic Patrol

1. Line Patrol involves observation either in moving or stationary observation at a certain route or
point of a major street in a city, done by foot patrol officers.
2. Area Patrol involves the conduct of observation either by moving patrol or observation of a
certain area which included a number of street, roads or sections of a highway, usually the job of
mobile police officers as well as those motorcycle cops.
Types
1.
2.
3.

of Stationary Observation
Conspicuous Observation
Visible Observation
Concealed Observation

Purposes of Traffic Patrol

1. Deterrent to violation and dangerous driving.
2. Detecting and apprehending violators.
3. Observing and reporting traffic conditions.
4. Observing and reporting road conditions, including view obstruction which needs attention.
5. Providing certain services to the public.
6. Handling emergencies as they arise and keeping traffic flow smoothly.
Traffic Accident Investigation generally, to know what question to ask and what to look for, you must
have some fundamental bearing on accidents and their causes. When you speak of traffic accident,
everybody knows what you mean SOMETHING WENT WRONG on the highway, either a wrecked car,
somebody is injured or possibly killed.
What Traffic Accident Investigation Determines its aims to know the five Ws and one H of
the incident:
1. WHAT happened?
2. WHO and WHAT was involved?
3. WHERE did it happen?
4. WHY did it happen?
5. HOW did the accident occur?
6. WHEN did the accident happen?
Purposes of Traffic Accident Investigation
1. Every involved is curious about the cause and circumstances of the accident.
2. For the police to find out whether there is enough evidence of law violation in the accident.
3. Claims attorneys and adjusters want to determine negligence on the part of the drivers involved in
the accident so that damage claims can be properly adjusted.
4. Officials and others want specific information about accidents to know how to prevent future
accidents.
Common Words and Phrases Used in Traffic Accident Investigation.
1. Accident it that occurrence in a sequence of events which usually produces unintended injury,
death, property damage.
2. TrafficAccident an accident involving travel transportation on a traffic way.
3. MotorVehicleAccident - events resulting in unintended injury or property damage attributable
directly or indirectly to the action of a motor vehicle or its loads.
4. Motor Vehicle every device which is self-propelled and every vehicle which is propelled by
electric power obtained from overhead trolley wires, but not operated upon rails.
5. Key Event an event on the road which characterized the manner of occurrence of a motor vehicle
traffic accident.
6. Debris the scattered broken parts of vehicles, rubbish, dust and other materials left at the scene
of the accident caused by a collision.
7. Skid Marks are marks left on the roadway by tires which are not free to rotate, usually because
brakes are applied strong and the wheels locked.
8. Traffic Unit any person using traffic way for travel, parking or other purposes as a pedestrian or
driver, including any vehicle, or animal which he is using.
9. Hazards is generated when a critical space-motion relationships between a traffic unit and other
object develops due to the movement of either or both.
10.Safe Speed speed adjusted to the potential or possible hazards or the road and traffic situation
ahead.
11.Strategy adjusting of speed, position on the road, and direction of motion, giving signals of intent
to turn or slow down, or any other action in situations involving potential hazards.
12.Tactic any action taken by the traffic unit to avoid hazardous situations like steering, braking, or
accelerating to avoid collision or other accident.
13.Impact striking of one body against another or a collision of a motor vehicle with another motor
vehicle.
14.ContactDamage damage to a vehicle resulting from direct pressure of some foreign object in a
collision or roll over.
15.Factor any circumstance contributing to a result without which the result could not have occurred
or it is an element necessary to produce the result, but not by itself sufficient.
16.Primary Cause a misnomer loosely applied to the most obvious or easily explained factor in the
case of an accident or the most easily modified condition factor.

17.Cause the combination of simultaneous and sequential factors without any one of which result
could not have occurred.
18.Attribute any inherent characteristics of a road, a vehicle, or a person that affects the probability
of a traffic accident.
19.Modifier a circumstance that alters an attribute permanently or temporarily.
Kind of Traffic Accidents
1. Non-Motor Vehicle Traffic Accident
2. Motor Vehicle Non-Traffic Accident
3. Motor Vehicle Traffic Accident
Classification of Motor Vehicle Traffic Accident According to Key Event
1. Running off road
2. Non-collision on road
3. Collision on road
Classification of Accident According to Severity
1. Property Damage Accident
2. Slight
3. Non-Fatal Injury Accident
4. Less Serious
5. Serious
6. Fatal
Causes of Motor Vehicle Traffic Accidents
1. Simultaneous Factors
a. Road condition
b. Drivers attitude or behavior
c. Whether condition
2. Sequential Factors
a. Speed is greater or less than safe.
b. Defective vehicle (vehicle malfunction).
3. Operational Factors
a. Road hazards
b. Drivers non-compliance to traffic laws, rules and regulations.
4. Perception Factors
a. Drivers inability to react promptly to a situation.
b. Drivers faulty action to escape collision course.
Chain
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

of Event in Vehicular Accident

Perception of Hazard
Start of evasive action
Initial Contact
Maximum Engagement
Disengagement
Stopping
Injury
Other event that may occur during an accident
a. Point of Possible Perception
b. Point of no Escape
c. Perception Delay
d. Final Position

Five Levels of Activity in Accident Investigation

1. Reporting
2. At-Scene Investigation
3. Technical preparation
4. Professional Reconstruction
5. Cause Analysis
Hit-and-run Cases evading responsibility is a term commonly applied to a traffic accident in which a
driver fails to comply with any of the duties required by Sec. 55 of RA 4136. Further, it states that no driver
of a motor vehicle concerned in a vehicle accidentshall leave the scene of the accident without aiding the
victim, except under any of the following circumstances, as discussed earlier in this book: If the driver is in
imminent danger of being seriously harmed by any person or persons by reason of the accident; if the
driver reports the accident of the nearest officers of the laws; or if the driver has to summon a physician or
nurse to aid the victim.
Reason of Apprehending and Prosecuting Hit-and-Run Drivers
1. Injury might have been lessened or death prevented if the driver had promptly sought help instead
of leaving the accident scene;
2. Street would not be safe if motorists could flee accident scene without accepting responsibility.
Unless the negligent driver is found, accident victims cannot get compensation for injuries and
properly damage;

3. Public knowledge that the police usually apprehend and convict hit-and-run drivers deters other
drivers who might otherwise be inclined to evade responsibility by committing this serious offense;
and
4. Since leaving the scene of an accident is not socially acceptable, the police secure increased public
support for the entire traffic control program by prompt apprehension and successful prosecution of
these offenders.
Two Important Considerations
1. The driver who flees the scene of an accident is not necessarily the driver responsible for the
accident. His reasons for flight are often more important than the simple evasion of responsibility.
He may be wanted for another crime, or intoxicated, or without a valid license, etc.
2. The hit-and-run driver often will report the damage to his own vehicle as having been the result of
another hit-and-run accident in which some other mysterious driver fled without identifying
himself. Similarly, it is not usual for the hit-and-run driver to abandon his vehicle and then report it
stolen as a means of covering up his involvement in the accident.
Element of Hit-and-Run
1. You must prove suspect was driving the vehicle at the time of the accident. Even if you have
witnesses to prove this, get evidence to disprove hid alibi.
2. Suspect was involved in an accident resulting in death, personal injury or damage to property.
3. Suspect failed to stop, give aid or information as to his identity to other person(s) involved, to police
or to anyone at the accident scene; or failed to take reasonable steps to notify the owner of
damaged property other than a vehicle. Do not overlook the possibility of a simulated second
accident to explain damaged caused by the first accident.
4. Suspect had knowledge of the accident.
a. Physical evidence may prove the vehicle figured in the accident.
b. Extent of damage to vehicle. Extensive damage to vehicle would preclude allegation of lack
of knowledge. If suspect refrained from using his vehicle for several days since the accident,
this would also indicate the guilt.
c. Guard against claims that the vehicle was stolen to evade responsibility.
The Hit-and-Run Operator
1. Three categories based upon possible psychological explanations for their motivation of
flight:
a. Apprehensive-panic-drive, fearful driver: intoxicated drivers; without license; no insurance;
his companion in the car is not his/her mate; stolen car; stolen good in car; leaving scene of
another crime; and fleeing crime scene or wanted for crime.
b. Projectionist-projects guilt. This type of drivers sits as judge and jury, tries the case himself,
finds the other drives off as the offended person.
c. The sneak operator. This type involves minor property-damage-only accident like one that
smashes a fender and smashes grillwork in his daily occupational activities and chalks up his
action as the calculated risk shared by all vehicle owners who place their vehicles on the
roadway.
2. Classes of Hit-and-Run Drivers. They could be: Drunk drivers; criminals fleeing the scene of the
crime; improperly licensed drivers or drives with no license or with revoked or expired license;
drivers who fear publicity and prosecution; ignorance of the accident; driver who flees in panic ;
drug addicts; insurance or financial reasons; and or juveniles.
Skidmarks the sudden application of brakes which results in the locked wheel condition places great
pressure between the brake shoe and the brake drum that the frictional force at this point becomes
greater than the frictional force between the tire and the road surface.
Principles Underlying on Skidmarks as a Tool in Traffic Investigation
1. Measurement of Skidmarks gives idea on how fast the car which left these marks was going prior to
the accident.
2. Estimates of speed based on Skidmarks may lead to convictions; or knowing how to estimate
speed correctly may help to keep an innocent person from being convicted.
Other Tire Marks
1. Centrifugal skid mark a marking on a roadway left by a rotating tire and wheel of a speeding
vehicle on a curve when the speed of the vehicle is above the critical speed of the curve and the
centrifugal force entirely or partially overcomes the friction between the mass of the vehicle and its
tires and the surface of the roadway.
2. Impending skid marks marks caused by the forward rotation of the wheels being slower than
the forward movement of the vehicle.
3. Yawn mark a scuffmark made while a vehicle is yawning the mark made on the road by a
rotating tire which is slipping in a direction parallel to the axle of the wheel.
4. Skip mark a braking skid mark interrupted at frequent regular intervals; the skid mark made by a
bouncing wheel on which brakes keep the wheel from turning.
5. Side Skid Mark (Scuff mark) it is a roadway marking left by the tire and the wheel of a vehicle
sliding sideways as a result of force other than centrifugal force.
6. Gap skid a braking skid mark which is interrupted by release and reapplication of brakes or which
terminates by release of brakes before collision.

Other
Other
1.
2.

Marks and Impression Left by a Motor Vehicle either on the Road Surface or on the
Motor Vehicle.
Ruts a sunken track worn by a wheel, as in road; hence, a groove forming a path for anything.
Gouge a groove made by a hard part of a motor vehicle to another car after sidesweeping each
other or it may be left on a road surface by a motor vehicle which overturned then slid on the road
surface.
3. Pain Strips when a vehicle collided with other object, it sometimes transfers its paint to other
object.

Skidmarks as Evidence in Accident Cases.

Skidmarks will: Aid in determining the speed prior to the accident or collision; show if the vehicle
was traveling in the wrong side of the road; indicate if the driver failed to observe the right of way; and
also show if the driver did not obey a traffic signal.
Things that Determine Skidding Distance.
How far a car will take to skid or slide to stop when all four wheels are locked depends on many
things. Three of these factors are important, and you must consider them in every estimate of speeds
based on Skidmarks: Speed itself is by far the most important; slipperiness of the pavement; and grade or
slope of the road whether road up or down.
Other
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

Factors that Affect the Skidding

Brake Pedal Pressure
Weight of the Car
Tire Thread
Air Pressure
Tire Material
Road Surface
Direction of Slides
Temperature of the Air and the Road Surface
Against Head Wind

Facts
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Needed
Length of Skidmarks
Coefficient of Friction or Drag Factor
Grade or Slope (Gradient)
Reaction Time
Brake Tests

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS OF TRAFFIC

1. KEEPRIGHT
2. OBSERVE ROAD COURTESY by yielding to emergency vehicles, pedestrians, trains, vehicles
with right of way, vehicles ahead, large vehicles, uphill traffic, traffic momentum, straight traffic and
traffic signs.
3. VEHICLES SHOULD NOT BE PARKED NEAR INTERSECTION, CROSSWALK, PEDESTRIAN
LANES, FIRE STATIONS, FIRE HYDRANT, AND PRIVATE DRIVEWAYS
4. IF IN DOUBT, DO NOT OVERTAKE - in general, the overtaking lane is the lane to the left of the
overtaken vehicle going the same direction. The overtaken vehicle is the burden vehicle.
5. THE BUS STOP RULE buses queue up on single file in their order of arrival. The lead bus moves
forward to the center of the column of buses lining-up on the bus stop zone, and remain until zone
is filled up with buses, but no longer than three minutes. Any bus has the option to move-out of the
area anytime or bypass a bus stop. There shall be no doubling up at any point in the bus stop zone.
6. RULES TO PREVENT OR UNTANGLE TRAFFIC CONGESTION OR TRAFFIC JAM keep opposing
lanes and intersection open. In heavy, slow or stopped traffic, there shall be no overtaking. In a
construction, the vehicles should merge alternately.
7. OBSERVE THE TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT MEASURES like the busy yellow lane rule, bus stop
segregation scheme, truck ban, counter low-reversible lane, one way, car pool (at least three
passengers in EDSA), odd and even scheme and restrains on turning.
8. THE PHILOSOPHY OF A PINOY DRIVER motorist should observe equity of the lead vehicle,
doctrine of the last clear chance, and the first-come first-served or rotunda rule
9. ON PEDESTRIANS keep off roadway except to cross on crosswalk or pedestrian lane, wait,
embark, and alight at bus or jeepney stop.
10.
REMEMBER THE INTERNATIONAL DRIVING SAFETTY REMINDER safety first.