Driving under the influence of alcohol or dangerous or illegal drugs is extremely dangerous and is punishable by law. For Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) holders, it is punishable by confiscation and suspension of the license for a period of twelve (12) months upon final conviction by a regular court. Professional Driver’s License (PDL) holders, on the other hand, can expect to have their license canceled upon the commission of the first offense.
This penalty applies after the Republic Act No. 10586, also known as the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, is enacted as a law. It especially prohibits and penalizes people from driving after consuming wine, beer, or any other intoxicating distilled spirits, or after using cannabis or marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, or methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu.) The law also mandates a drug test for drivers involved in drug accidents or those whom the law enforcement officers believe to be under influence.
RA 11229: Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013
Enacted in May 2013, the RA 11229, otherwise known as the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, was meant to protect both the citizens’ lives and properties by promoting responsible and ethical driving. It imposes penalties to those who are caught driving under the influence of alcohol (DUIA), as well as those who are driving under the influence of dangerous drugs and other similar substances (DUID).
The original law imposes fines ranging from P20,000 to P500,000 with a minimum 3-month jail term, depending on the nature of the violation and whether the act caused injuries or deaths.
Subsequent Amendments to RA 11229
In 2021, the House of Representatives approved a bill that proposes stiffer penalties. The bill penalizes those who are caught driving drunk or drugged as follows:
For driving under the influence of alcohol (DUIA) and driving under the influence of dangerous drugs and other similar substances (DUID) with no homicide or physical injury: Initial fine ranging from P50,000 to P100,000 with a minimum of 6-month jail term shall be imposed.
For driving under the influence of alcohol (DUIA) and driving under the influence of dangerous drugs and other similar substances (DUID) and somebody gets injured: imprisonment under Article 263 of the Revised Penal Code plus a fine ranging from P150,000 to P250,000 shall be imposed.
For driving under the influence of alcohol (DUIA) and driving under the influence of dangerous drugs and other similar substances (DUID) resulting in homicide: a penalty of imprisonment under Article 249 of the Revised Penal Code plus a fine ranging from P350,000 to P500,000 shall be imposed.
In 2022, amendments were made to the law, imposing even stiffer penalties for drunk and drugged driving. The amendments imposes the following penalties:
Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) holders: Motorists with NPDL who drive after drinking alcohol or using drugs may get the following penalties:
First offense (driving under the influence of alcohol (DUIA) and driving under the influence of dangerous drugs and other similar substances (DUID)): A twelve-month driver’s license suspension
Second offense (driving under the influence of alcohol (DUIA) and driving under the influence of dangerous drugs and other similar substances (DUID)): A perpetual revocation of driver’s license.
Professional Driver’s License holders: Motorists who hold a professional license will be confiscated and permanently revoked for the first offense and will be banned from applying for another driver’s license in the future.
In 2023, a partylist lawmaker is pushing for House Bill 7968, an amendment to what the representative thinks is insufficiently implemented Republic Act (RA) 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act. The bill pushes the deputization of more enforcement officers to implement the law against individuals driving under the influence of alcohol or dangerous drugs.
The amendment is supposed to make the law more effective in minimizing road crashes and other accidents. The bill also mandates the LTO to regularly conduct random inspections in public utility vehicle (PUV) terminals and to do quick random drug tests among PUV drivers.
Note: In case of apprehension, a driver, who has undergone and passed the field sobriety test and/or ABA test, cannot be subjected to drug screening test afterwards. Likewise, a driver who has undergone and passed the drug test, cannot be subjected to a field sobriety test and/or ABA test afterwards.
Who is responsible in cases of drunk driving incidents: the driver or the owner of the vehicle?
The short answer is both. During incidents or accidents caused by driving under the influence of alcohol (DUIA) or driving under the influence of dangerous drugs and other similar substances (DUID), it’s not just the driver of the vehicle who is at fault. when it comes to drunk driving incidents. The law penalizes both the driver and the owner of the vehicle involved, especially if it involves public utility vehicles (PUVs) and commercial vehicles such as delivery vans, cargo trucks, container trucks, school and company buses, hotel transports, cars or vans for rent, taxi cabs, and the like.
The law says, “The owner and/or operator of the motor vehicle driven by the offender shall be directly and principally held liable together with the offender for the fine and the award against the offender for civil damages unless he/she is able to convincingly prove that he/she has exercised extraordinary diligence in the selection and supervision of his/her drivers in general and the offending driver in particular.”
Driver’s License Custody
All driver’s licenses confiscated under these rules shall be turned over to LTO for safekeeping and shall be released by LTO only after final disposition or lawful order of the courts.
Summary
In essence, driving under the influence of alcohol or dangerous or illegal drugs is illegal and extremely dangerous. Hence, the Philippine government continues to impose stiff penalties and punishments, both for the drivers, who hold both Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) and Professional Driver’s License (PDL). Even the car owners and operators are punished by the law. The penalties may vary, but it becomes stiffer depending on the frequency of offense and the gravity of damages or injuries it causes. Even without injuries, the law imposes stiff penalties for simply driving while drunk or after taking illegal drugs in order to ensure that both the drivers and other road users stay responsible and safe in public.
The Philippines’ Republic Act No. 10586, otherwise known as the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Law, is a law that prohibits drunk drivers and drug users from operating motor vehicles on the road in an attempt to reduce the number of accidents caused by drunk and drugged drivers.
Unfortunately, despite the tons of reminders against drinking and driving, they never seem enough. In 2022, the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Enforcement Unit of the Enforcement service managed by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) responded to 402 road crash incidents from January to August. Even the Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) reported an increase of up to 90% in terms of the number of road accidents caused by drunk drivers, amounting to about 25% of road accidents in the Philippines.
What is RA 10586: Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013?
Republic Act No. 10586, also known as the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, is a law especially designed to prohibit and penalize people who drive under the influence of alcohol, dangerous drugs, and other similar substances. It prohibits driving if you have consumed wine, beer, or any other intoxicating distilled spirits, or has used cannabis or marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, or methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu). The law also mandates a drug test for drivers involved in accidents or those whom the law enforcement officers believe to be under the influence of drugs
The RA 10586 is authored by Vicente “Tito” Sotto III and signed into law by the late President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III. It was enacted in May 2013, with the goal of protecting the citizens’ lives and properties by promoting responsible and ethical driving and imposing penalties against those who drive under the influence of alcohol, dangerous drugs, and other similar substances. As a law, this is one of the government’s attempts to protect the safety of life and property, as well as the general welfare of the Filipinos through the observance of the citizenry of responsible and ethical driving standards.
Salient Points of the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Law
To truly claim full understanding of the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Law, listed below are its most important points, covering the scope and coverage as well as the information on what happens when you actually get pulled up for such an offense.
Scope and Coverage of the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Law
According to RA 10586, it is illegal to drive under influence (DUI) or to operate motor vehicles while under the influence of either alcohol or prohibited or dangerous drugs. Doing so will entail getting charged as follows:
Driving under the influence of alcohol (DUIA)
Driving under the influence of alcohol (DUIA) refers to the act of operating a motor vehicle while drunk. By being drunk, this means that the driver’s Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level has, after being subjected to the use of Breathalyzer, better known as the Alcohol Breath Analyzer (ABA) test, reached the level of intoxication, as established jointly by the rules created by the Department of Health (DOH), the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), and the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
For this purpose, a driver of a private motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight not exceeding 4500 kg. a BAC of 0.05% or higher shall be conclusive proof that said driver is driving under the influence of alcohol. On the other hand, drivers of trucks, buses, motorcycles, and public utility vehicles with a BAC of more than 0.0% shall be conclusive proof that said driver is driving under the influence of alcohol.
Driving under the influence of dangerous drugs and other similar substances (DUID)
Driving under the influence of dangerous drugs and other similar substances (DUID) refers to the act of operating a motor vehicle while the driver, after being subjected to a screening and a confirmatory test, is found to be positive for use of any dangerous drug. By definition, dangerous drugs refer to drugs listed in the schedules annexed to the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotics Drugs, as amended by the 1972 Protocol, and in the schedules annexed to the 1971 Single Convention of Psychotropic Substances as enumerated in its attachment which is an integral part of Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as the “Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002″ and those that the Dangerous Drugs Board may reclassify, add to or remove from the list of dangerous drugs.
DUI Apprehensions
In cases of apprehensions for DUI, the following procedures will be observed in accordnace with the law:
Step 1: Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) establishes probable cause.
By establishing probable cause, the LEO decides that there is reasonable ground to believe that the person driving the motor vehicle is under the influence of alcohol, dangerous drugs and/or other similar substances upon personally witnessing a traffic offense.
Some traffic offenses that may merit the attention of LEOs include:
weaving in such an apparent way as to indicate that the driver is under the influence of alcohol, dangerous drugs and/or other similar substances.
Step 2: Upon personal determination of probable cause, a deputized LEO shall flag down the motor vehicle, direct the driver to step out of the vehicle and determine whether or not the driver is drunk or drugged.
In the course of apprehension for another traffic offense, some other telltale signs of DUI include:
evident smell of alcohol in a driver’s breath,
generally slurred speech in response to questioning,
bloodshot or reddish eyes,
flushed face,
poor coordination,
difficulty in understanding and responding intelligently to questions
Step 3: In any case, the burden of proof to establish the existence of probable cause is on the LEO.
If the LEO has reasonable grounds to believe that the driver is drunk: The LEO shall expressly inform the driver of his assessment and the driver shall be directed to perform all of the following field sobriety tests on site.
Field Sobriety Tests
The conduct of the following standardized field sobriety test will determine whether the apprehended driver drank too much alcohol or took drugs at the time of the incident.
The sobriety test consists of the following:
The Eye Test (“horizontal gaze nystagmus”)
The Eye Test (“horizontal gaze nystagmus”) refers to horizontal or lateral jerking of the driver’s eyes as he or she gazes sideways following a moving object. To conduct this test, the LEO moves an object like a pen or the tip of a penlight from side to side while being held from a distance of about one (1) foot away from the face of the driver. The apprehended driver will pass the test if he is able to follow the object with his eyes without the involuntary jerkiness common among those under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The Walk-and-Turn
The Walk-and-Turn requires the driver to walk heel-to-toe along a straight line for nine (9) steps, turn at the end and return to the point of origin without any difficulty. This demonstrates the driver’s ability to maintain his balance and prove that there are no drugs or alcohol in his system. Wobbliness or failure to complete the nine-step walk is a possible indicator of intoxication.
The One-Leg Stand
For the last test, the One-Leg Stand requires the driver to stand on either right or left leg with both arms on the side. The driver must be able to keep his foot raised about six (6) inches off the ground for thirty (30) seconds to prove his balance and coordination.
If the driver passes all of the three (3) field sobriety tests: The driver shall be issued traffic tickets only for the traffic offense that got him pulled over for.
If the driver fails any of the sobriety tests: The driver is then subjected to the breathalyzer or ABA test. This test uses a device called the ABA, more commonly known as the breathalyzer, to analyze the amount of alcohol in the blood through the breath.
If the driver registers a BAC higher than the prescribed limit: The LEO impound the vehicle, arrest the driver, and turn the case over to the police officer-on-duty in the nearest police station with the following:
1. A complaint/charge sheet; 2. Results of the field sobriety tests/ABA test in the prescribed format; 3. Inventory of items under temporary custody (to include motor vehicle when necessary); and 4. Other pertinent documents.
If the driver registers a BAC within the prescribed limit: The driver shall be apprehended for the other traffic offense he was pulled up for.
If the LEO has reasonable grounds to believe that the driver is intoxicated with drugs or other similar substances: The LEO shall bring the driver to the nearest police station for a drug screening test.
In cases of positive confirmation of drug use: the LEO shall accomplish the following preparatory to the turnover of the case to the police officer-on-duty of the nearest police station:
1. Results of the conduct of the DRP in the prescribed format; 2. Inventory of items under temporary custody (to include motor vehicle when necessary); and 3. Other pertinent documents.
In cases without positive confirmation of drug use: The driver shall be apprehended for the other traffic offense only and not for violation of this Act.
Note: Those who refuse to take the field sobriety or drug screening test will have their driver’s license confiscated and revoked.
If the apprehended driver speeds off after getting flagged and it results in a chase, then he will also have to face charges for resistance to persons in authority and obstruction on public roads, which is an MMDA traffic violation.
Penalties for Driving Under the Influence
The law also imposes the following penalties, depending on the offense committed:
If you fail the field sobriety tests, the breathalyzer exam, and the drug test: you’ll be fined between ₱50,000 and ₱100,000 and given a six-month prison sentence.
If you caused an injury while drunk driving: you’ll face imprisonment and steeper fines ranging from ₱150,000 to ₱250,000.
If you caused an accident that resulted in homicide: you’ll be imprisoned and fined between ₱350,000 to ₱500,000. Any subsequent car insurance claims may also be rejected.
If you are a non-professional driver’s license holder: Your license will be confiscated and suspended for 18 months for the first conviction and permanently revoked for the second.
If you are a professional driver’s license holder: Your license will be confiscated and permanently revoked for the first conviction and can no longer apply for another license in the future.
Driver’s License Custody
All driver’s licenses confiscated under these rules shall be turned over to LTO for safekeeping and shall be released by LTO only after final disposition or lawful order of the courts.
Important Reminders
For your reference, here are some important reminders related to the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Law:
In case of apprehension, a driver, who has undergone and passed the field sobriety test and/or ABA test, cannot be subjected to drug screening test afterwards.
Likewise, a driver who has undergone and passed the drug test, cannot be subjected to a field sobriety test and/or ABA test afterwards.
If you are planning to drink, don’t drive.
If you can’t avoid drinking, don’t drink on an empty stomach and consume a lot of water.
If you can’t pace yourself from consuming alcohol, just book a cab, spend the night at a friend’s place, or have a designated driver.
Summary
Driving your own car is a luxury, but it also comes with responsibilities. As a driver, you are accountable for a lot of things—including the safety not just of the people inside the car but also of the others on the road. That said, the government has enacted the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Law or the Republic Act No. 10586 which makes it illegal for anyone to drink and drive or take drugs and drive. The law also imposes appropriate apprehension procedures and penalties. By following the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Law, you can keep everyone—including yourself—safe and you can also avoid having to settle traffic violations and paying hefty LTO fees.
Driving at night in the Philippines presents its own set of challenges, from poorly lit roads to unexpected obstacles, unpredictable traffic, and diverse road conditions. To ensure a fun and smooth journey after sunset, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) always reminds Filipino drivers to take the right precautions and prioritize night driving safety. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common night driving safety tips on how Filipino drivers can safely navigate the nocturnal roads of the Philippines with confidence and caution and still get to their destination unscathed and in one piece.
Remembering and observing night driving safety tips when driving on Philippine roads at night is essential to mitigate the unique challenges posed by limited visibility, diverse road conditions, and various potential hazards. By prioritizing safety, drivers contribute to a safer road environment for themselves and others, reducing the likelihood of accidents and promoting responsible driving habits.
Night driving in the Philippines refers to the act of operating a vehicle on the roads during the nighttime hours, typically between sunset and sunrise. This period poses unique challenges and considerations for drivers due to reduced visibility, varying road conditions, and potential hazards that may be more pronounced after dark.
Factors that Contribute to Safe Driving at Night
Several factors contribute to the challenges and distinct nature of night driving in the Philippines
Limited Street Lighting: Many roads in the Philippines, especially in rural or less developed areas, may lack sufficient street lighting. This can make it challenging for drivers to see the road clearly and anticipate obstacles.
Presence of Pedestrians and Animals: In certain areas, pedestrians and animals might share the roads with vehicles, and their visibility can be compromised at night. Drivers need to be vigilant to avoid accidents involving pedestrians or animals.
Unpredictable Road Conditions: The condition of roads can vary significantly, ranging from well-maintained highways to poorly maintained rural roads. Drivers must navigate these conditions carefully, especially when visibility is reduced.
Roadside Breakdowns: Breakdowns are more challenging at night, especially if the driver is not adequately prepared. Carrying emergency tools, a flashlight, and maintaining a well-maintained vehicle can mitigate the risks associated with roadside issues after dark.
Weather Conditions: The Philippines experiences diverse weather patterns, including sudden rain showers or fog, which can impact visibility. Adapting to these changes and adjusting driving behavior accordingly is crucial for safe night driving.
Traffic Challenges: Even during the nighttime, traffic congestion can be a concern in urban areas. Negotiating traffic, adhering to traffic rules, and avoiding aggressive driving are important aspects of night driving.
Driver Fatigue: Night driving may coincide with periods when drivers are naturally more fatigued. Combating driver fatigue through breaks, staying alert, and avoiding distractions becomes particularly important during nighttime travel.
Drunk Driving Risks: The risk of encountering drunk drivers tends to increase during the nighttime, especially on weekends or holidays. Being cautious and reporting suspected impaired drivers contributes to overall road safety.
Cultural and Local Factors:Driving habits and road culture can vary by region in the Philippines. Understanding and respecting local norms and practices is important for navigating roads safely, especially at night.
To address these challenges and ensure safe night driving in the Philippines, drivers are encouraged to follow specific safety tips such as maintaining vehicle lights, reducing speed, staying focused, and being aware of their surroundings.
45 Tips to Stay Safe When Driving at Night
By doing so, drivers can contribute to a safer road environment for themselves and fellow road users, even in the unique conditions presented by night driving in the Philippines.
Ensure Proper Lighting
Make sure your vehicle’s headlights, taillights, and signal lights are in good working condition. Adjust your headlights properly to avoid blinding oncoming drivers.
Clean Your Headlights
Regularly clean your headlights and replace them if they’re dim or cloudy. Consider using specialized headlight cleaning kits for optimal visibility.
Drive Slower at Night
Reduce your speed after dark, as visibility is limited, and unexpected obstacles may appear. Follow posted speed limits and adjust your speed according to road conditions.
Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. A greater following distance at night is ideal in cases of sudden stops or unexpected obstacles to allow for longer reaction times. This precaution is especially crucial considering the possibility of reduced visibility.
Use High Beams Wisely
Switch to high beams only when there’s no oncoming traffic or when following another vehicle. Dim your lights promptly when approaching or being approached by another driver to avoid blinding the driver in front. Avoid using high beams in foggy conditions, as high beams can reflect off the moisture and reduce visibility. Instead, you can use low beams and fog lights as needed.
Be Mindful of Other Drivers
Understand that some drivers may struggle with night vision, so be considerate with your high beams. Use your turn signals early to give ample notice to other drivers.
Regular Vehicle Maintenance
Ensure your brakes, tires, and steering are in top condition to handle unexpected situations. It’s best to regularly check and replace windshield wipers for clear visibility during rain.
Plan Your Route in Advance
Familiarize yourself with the route before starting your journey, especially if it involves unfamiliar roads. Knowing the road layout and potential hazards helps in making informed decisions.
Use GPS for Navigation
Use a reliable GPS navigation system to avoid getting lost in unfamiliar areas, especially at night. Use GPS or navigation apps to stay informed about upcoming turns and exits.
Watch for Animals
Be cautious of wildlife, especially in rural areas. Slow down and use caution, particularly when entering areas with signs warning of wildlife or those known for frequent animal crossings.
Avoid Overloading
Do not overload your vehicle, as it can impact handling and stability, especially at night. Distribute weight evenly to maintain control.
Beware of Two-Wheelers
Motorcycles and bicycles may be less visible at night, so exercise caution. Check your blind spots and use the mirrors frequently.
Use Reflective Materials
Consider adding reflective tape to your vehicle for better visibility. Wear reflective clothing if you need to exit your vehicle on the road.
Stay Informed About Road Conditions
Be aware of ongoing construction or road repairs. Use traffic apps to stay updated on accidents or congestion.
Minimize Glare from Oncoming Vehicles
Look slightly to the right when faced with oncoming headlights. Adjust your rearview mirror to reduce the glare from vehicles behind you.
Emergency Kit Essentials
Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including a flashlight, first aid supplies, and reflective triangles. In case of a breakdown, visibility and safety are paramount.
Watch for Drunk Drivers
Be cautious of erratic driving behavior, a potential sign of drunk driving. Maintain a safe distance and report suspicious behavior if possible.
Stay Sober
Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs as it impairs your judgment and coordination, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. Make sure to arrange for a designated driver or alternative transportation if needed.
Educate Yourself
Stay informed about new driving regulations and safety guidelines. Consider taking defensive driving courses to enhance your skills.
Check Your Lights Regularly
Ensure that all your vehicle lights—headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals—are in good working condition. Regularly inspect and replace bulbs as needed.
Use High-Quality Headlights
Invest in high-quality headlights that provide clear illumination. Adjust them properly to avoid blinding oncoming drivers and use the high beams judiciously.
Clean Your Windshield
A clean windshield is crucial for visibility. Keep it free from smudges, streaks, and dust. Replace worn-out wipers to maintain clear visibility during rain or mist.
Reduce Speed
Slow down when driving at night. Reduced visibility requires extra reaction time, and lower speeds enhance safety.
Avoid Overdriving Your Headlights
Drive at a speed that allows you to stop within the illuminated area of your headlights. This prevents the risk of not seeing obstacles in time.
Stay Alert and Focused
Night driving demands heightened focus. Avoid distractions such as texting or talking on the phone, and refrain from drowsy driving.
Take Breaks if Fatigued
If you feel tired, take a break. If you go on a long journey, take breaks to avoid fatigue as it can impair reaction times and decision-making skills, significantly increasing the risk of accidents, while rest stops can refresh your focus.
Be Mindful of Pedestrians
Watch out for pedestrians, especially in poorly lit areas. Always yield the right of way and be prepared for unexpected crossings.
Use Road Markings as Guides
Follow road markings to stay within your lane, especially when the road is poorly lit. This helps prevent unintentional drifting.
Dim Your Dashboard Lights
Dim the lights on your dashboard to reduce internal reflections and eye strain, promoting better external visibility.
Stay Informed About Road Conditions
Check the weather and road condition updates before starting your journey. Being aware of potential hazards allows for better preparation.
Have Your Eyes Checked Regularly
Good vision is essential for night driving. Schedule regular eye check-ups to ensure optimal eyesight.
Secure Loose Items in Your Car
Loose items can become projectiles in the event of a sudden stop or collision. Secure them properly to avoid unnecessary hazards.
Beware of Drunk Drivers
Be extra cautious, especially during weekends and holidays, when the likelihood of encountering drunk drivers may increase.
Use Your Horn Wisely
Use your horn sparingly and only when necessary. Excessive honking can contribute to noise pollution and distract other drivers.
Secure Loose Items in Your Car
Loose items can become projectiles in the event of a sudden stop or collision. Secure them properly to avoid unnecessary hazards.
Be Prepared for Emergency Situations
Carry a flashlight, first aid kit, and emergency tools in your vehicle. In case of breakdowns or accidents, these items can be invaluable.
Park in Well-Lit Areas
When parking at night, choose well-lit areas to enhance security and visibility. Avoid secluded or poorly lit parking spaces.
Follow Traffic Rules
Adhere to traffic rules and regulations. This includes obeying speed limits, traffic signals, and road signs, promoting a safer driving environment.
Stay Updated on Vehicle Maintenance
Regularly service your vehicle to ensure optimal performance. Well-maintained vehicles are more reliable and safer on the road.
Invest in Anti-Glare Mirrors
Anti-glare rearview mirrors can reduce the impact of headlights from vehicles behind you, improving overall visibility.
Use Turn Signals Early
Signal your intentions well in advance to give other drivers ample time to react, reducing the risk of sudden maneuvers.
Use Your Horn Wisely
Use your horn sparingly and only when necessary. Excessive honking can contribute to noise pollution and distract other drivers.
Keep Important Documents with You
Keeping important documents with you while driving at night in the Philippines is a practical and precautionary measure. It helps facilitate interactions with authorities, ensures compliance with regulations, and provides essential information in case of emergencies or unforeseen situations, contributing to a safer and more secure driving experience.
Practice Defensive Driving
Adopt a defensive driving mindset. Be prepared for the unexpected, anticipate potential risks, and prioritize safety at all times.
Summary
As Filipino drivers take to the roads after dark, implementing these night driving safety tips can significantly enhance their safety and the safety of others. By prioritizing visibility, attentiveness, and caution, drivers can navigate the challenges of night driving in the Philippines with confidence and responsibility. After all, safety should always be a top priority, especially when the sun sets and the challenges of the night road unfold. On top of the safety benefits, keeping these tips in mind would also ensure that you get from point A to point B safely in one piece and without the complications of violations and accidents. After all, the rules of the road still holds at night, more so because of the increased risks that the dark poses to driver, passengers, and pedestrians alike.
