Some Filipinos are perceived as poor drivers, not due to ignorance, but rather because of disorderly and discourteous behavior. It may be common to see drivers running red lights and parking in prohibited areas, and these bad driving habits, though generally regulated by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), are believed to run deep, stemming from the indifference rooted in a morally corrupt societal fabric. This negative driving behavior reflects an even broader cultural disposition toward rudeness and defiance, all of which seem to be traits that extend beyond the act of driving itself.

Regardless of the reason for such bad driving habits, Filipino drivers can be a challenge to drive alongside with. The roads are no better. When you go for a drive, it’s easy to witness a cacophony of questionable driving habits, most of which even contribute to the already bad traffic woes. In this article, let’s take a look at some of the most common driving habits that Filipinos need to unlearn for a safer and smoother driving experience.

15 Bad Driving Habits of Filipino Drivers

Maybe it’s the prevailing perception among Filipinos that rules are not fixed and do not necessarily apply to them or the famed Filipino improvisational spirit, or maybe even the confidence of being in their home turf, but many Filipinos drivers aren’t very keen on following the rules of the road. In fact, some may even see this as a sense of entitlement ingrained in the culture, allowing them to believe that even traffic rules can be bent or ignored without consequences. Whatever the reason, many Filipino drivers have an ingrained propensity for rule-breaking and some other bad driving habits, which, if pointed out, may help them realize and unlearn. 

Getting more Filipinos to quit their bad driving habits is something that the government should incest on, and for good reasons. First, adopting safer driving practices enhances overall road safety, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. Improved driving behavior contributes to a smoother traffic flow, minimizing congestion and frustration among drivers. It is also essential for fostering a more positive driving culture. Respect for traffic rules and consideration for fellow road users create a harmonious environment, promoting a sense of shared responsibility for everyone’s safety.

Also Read: 45 Night Driving Safety Tips for Filipino Drivers

Additionally, breaking away from negative habits contributes to a better public image, both domestically and internationally, reflecting positively on the nation as a whole. Furthermore, adherence to traffic regulations leads to a more efficient transportation system, benefiting everyone on the road, ultimately creating a safer, more organized, and respectful driving environment for all.

Here’s a list of some of the most common bad driving habits that earned the Filipino drivers their notoriety on the streets.

Disregard for Traffic Signs (DTS) and Rules

One of the glaring issues on Philippine roads is the pervasive disregard for traffic signs (DTS) and rules. Running red lights, ignoring stop signs, and failing to yield contribute to a chaotic traffic flow. Addressing this issue requires a collective effort to promote a culture of adherence to traffic regulations.

Undisciplined Overtaking

Overtaking, when done recklessly, is a major contributor to road accidents. Filipinos often exhibit impatience when stuck behind slower vehicles, leading to dangerous overtaking maneuvers. Encouraging patience and responsible overtaking can significantly reduce the risk of collisions.

Inadequate Use of Signal Lights

Signal lights seem to be an underrated feature in Filipino driving culture. Many drivers fail to use them, making it challenging for others to anticipate their moves. Promoting the consistent and correct use of signal lights is crucial for fostering safer road communication.

Failure to Give Way to Pedestrians

Pedestrian crosswalks are often treated as optional by some Filipino drivers. This neglect places pedestrians at risk and hampers the flow of traffic. Encouraging drivers to yield to pedestrians not only ensures safety but also contributes to a more efficient road system.

Overdependence on Horns

The ubiquitous honking of horns has become a signature sound on Philippine roads. However, the excessive use of horns, especially in heavy traffic, adds to the noise pollution and creates a stressful driving environment. For some reason, Filipino drivers like blowing their horns way too often, it’s practically ingrained in the Filipino road culture. In some cases, some drivers even have the nerve to unnecessarily use their horns in hospital and church areas. Encouraging the judicious use of horns can lead to a more peaceful and considerate driving atmosphere.

Lack of Lane Discipline

Maintaining lane discipline is a challenge on Philippine roads, with vehicles often straddling multiple lanes. Filipinos like to change lanes too often, resulting in lack of order on the roads and leading to congestion and frustration among drivers. Promoting a more disciplined approach to lane usage can ease traffic flow and enhance overall road safety.

Improper Parking Practices

Parking can be a nightmare in busy urban areas due to improper and illegal parking practices. Sidewalks, no-parking zones, and even major thoroughfares become makeshift parking spaces. Encouraging responsible parking and strict enforcement of parking regulations are essential steps to alleviate this issue. It also includes the use of hazard lights for parking in various locations, particularly when the driver awaits a passenger engaged in a brief activity, such as using an ATM. This is bad driving behavior and it can pose an inconvenience for fellow motorists as it often involves blocking one lane.

Neglect of Turn Signals

The use of turn signals is a simple yet crucial aspect of safe driving. Unfortunately, many Filipino drivers neglect this basic courtesy, leaving others to guess their intentions. Emphasizing the importance of using turn signals can significantly reduce confusion and enhance road safety.

Distracted Driving

The rise of mobile devices has brought with it a surge in distracted driving incidents. Texting, calling, and even browsing while driving pose serious risks to road safety. Promoting awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and advocating for hands-free technology can mitigate these risks. When behind the wheel, a driver’s primary responsibility is to concentrate on the road. This is particularly detailed in the Anti-Distracted Driving Law as any distractions on the road directly impacts the safety of passengers, fellow road users, and pedestrians, potentially determining life or death outcomes.

Lack of Respect for Emergency Vehicles

Emergency vehicles frequently face challenges navigating through traffic, encountering a lack of consideration from other drivers. Raising awareness about the significance of yielding to ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles can play a crucial role in preserving lives during urgent situations. Unfortunately, some Filipino drivers not only not yield to emergency vehicles, some also sees them as opportunities to sneak through tight patches. 

Tailgating or Mid-lane Hogging

Whether perceived as a defensive driving strategy or sheer impoliteness, tailgating or hogging the mid-lane tends to irk many drivers. Even when a vehicle signals appropriately for a lane change, the request is often disregarded. In essence, a notable number of Filipinos appear to lack awareness of road courtesy. In the provinces, left-lane hogging is also a thing.

Not using Helmets, Seatbelts, and Child Restraint System (CRS)

Non-compliance with dress codes and safety measures such as helmets, seatbelts, and child restraint systems (CRS) is common among Filipino car owners. Not only does it reflect a concerning and prevalent bad habit, but some people even believe that these safety measures are optional or unnecessary, thanks to the absence of stringent penalties or consistent enforcement by authorities. Unfortunately, this particular bad driving habit can bring a high risk of injury or fatality in the event of an accident or a collision. It is a solid proof that there is a lack of strict enforcement, cultural attitudes, and a general disregard for the importance of safety precautions on the road. 

Using Commemorative/Privilege Plates

Utilizing commemorative or privilege plates, whether displaying titles like Attorney, PNP Class of ’89, or indicating affiliation with a government agency, serves a straightforward purpose – to dissuade traffic personnel from issuing citations for road violations. The irksome aspect of this practice lies in the blatant “I am exempt from traffic law” attitude it conveys, which can be perceived as an in-your-face display of entitlement.

Driving in a “Gangsta Lean”

Driving with fully extended arms and a reclined seat, often referred to as the “gangsta lean,” is strongly discouraged in any driving scenario. This posture hampers the driver’s ability to react quickly and steer away from potential collisions due to its excessively relaxed nature.

The recommended driving position entails sitting up straight in the driver’s seat with slightly bent arms. Achieving the correct distance to the steering wheel involves placing wrists at the 12 o’clock side of the wheel and attempting to move it at the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock positions. If you feel like it takes excessive effort to steer, adjust the seat or steering wheel distance accordingly to ensure optimal control and responsiveness.

Using Hazard Lights during Heavy Rain

Using hazard lights during heavy rain is a commonly observed yet a bad, unofficial practice, primarily on expressways but increasingly prevalent in urban settings. Sure, turning on the hazard lights in torrential downpours enhances visibility and signals drivers behind to reduce speed. However, it’s crucial to note that drivers can inherently sense the challenging conditions without the aid of hazard lights. Plus, it communicates to other motorists that you are in distress and need to stop. Instead, the recommended approach is to use headlights to improve visibility without sending a distress signal.

Summary

Filipinos are notorious for their bad driving habits and inherent lack of discipline and consideration for others on the road. Whether it is deliberate or a deeply-rooted sense of entitlement and indifference, these ingrained driving habits require a concerted effort from both authorities and the driving community to address. We can’t always tolerate bad driving habits. After all, cultivating a culture of responsibility, patience, and adherence to traffic rules is paramount for fostering safer and more efficient roads in the Philippines. By unlearning these bad driving habits, Filipinos can contribute to creating a road environment that prioritizes safety, courtesy, and respect for all users.

Long drives can be exhilarating adventures, providing an opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories. However, it’s crucial to prioritize safety on the road to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) offers a list of safety guidelines to help drivers navigate lengthy trips with confidence and responsibility.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) typically focuses on promoting road safety and responsible driving practices rather than directly endorsing the benefits of specific activities like long drives. However, engaging in safe and responsible long drives can indirectly contribute to various aspects related to road safety, hence, the need for this guide:

What is a “Long Drive”

A “long drive” typically refers to a journey or trip by car that covers a considerable distance, often involving several hours of continuous driving. The exact distance that qualifies as a long drive may vary depending on individual perspectives, but it generally implies a drive that extends beyond the usual commuting or short-distance travel. 

The main difference between long drives and regular drives lies in the duration and distance covered. Regular drives are commonly short-distance trips, such as commuting to work, running errands, or driving within the local vicinity. These drives typically involve minimal time behind the wheel and may not require extensive planning.

On the other hand, long drives encompass more extended periods of driving, often involving travel between cities or across regions. They require more careful preparation, including considerations for factors like vehicle maintenance, rest stops, and potential weather conditions. Long drives may also necessitate a different mindset, additional attention to factors like vehicle readiness, rest, and safety considerations as drivers need to manage fatigue over an extended period to ensure that long drives remain safe and fun.

Benefits

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) typically focuses on promoting road safety and responsible driving practices rather than directly endorsing the benefits of specific activities like long drives. However, engaging in safe and responsible long drives can indirectly contribute to various positive aspects that align with general well-being. Here are some potential benefits:

• Stress Reduction: Long drives can offer a break from daily stressors, providing individuals with an opportunity to unwind and relax, which aligns with maintaining mental well-being.
• Quality Time with Loved Ones: Long drives can be a chance to spend quality time with family and friends, fostering stronger connections and creating lasting memories.
• Exploration and Discovery: Going on long drives allows individuals to explore new places, appreciate scenic landscapes, and discover hidden gems, contributing to a sense of adventure and curiosity.
• Mental Refreshment: A change of scenery during a long drive can act as a mental refresh, offering a break from routine and providing a different perspective.
• Physical Activity: While driving itself is a sedentary activity, long drives often involve stops and breaks, encouraging individuals to stretch their legs, walk, or engage in light physical activity at rest areas.
• Photography and Creativity: Long drives through picturesque routes may inspire photography enthusiasts, offering opportunities to capture beautiful landscapes and moments.
• Celebrating Milestones: People often choose to go on long drives to celebrate milestones, turning the journey into a part of the overall celebratory experience.
• Camaraderie with Fellow Travelers: Whether traveling with friends or participating in group road trips, long drives can foster camaraderie and a sense of shared adventure.

It’s important to note that while these potential benefits align with positive experiences during long drives, individuals should always prioritize safety on the road. Following LTO guidelines and practicing responsible driving behavior contributes to ensuring that the benefits of long drives are enjoyed in a secure and enjoyable manner.

LTO Safety Tips to Avoid Danger During Long Drives

For your safety especially during long drives common on weekends and during holiday seasons, here are some tips offered by the agency:

Vehicle Maintenance

Regular maintenance checks are paramount before embarking on a long drive. Ensure that your vehicle’s brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels are in optimal condition. Address any issues promptly to prevent breakdowns on the road.

Plan Your Route

Before setting out, plan your route using reliable navigation tools. Familiarize yourself with rest stops, gas stations, and emergency services along the way. This preparation minimizes the chances of getting lost and helps you anticipate potential challenges.

Stay Well-Rested

Fatigue is a significant contributor to road accidents. Prioritize getting a good night’s sleep before the journey and take regular breaks during the drive. If possible, share driving responsibilities with a companion to ensure that the driver remains alert.

Follow Speed Limits

Adhering to speed limits is a fundamental safety measure. Long drives can be tiring, and maintaining a moderate speed reduces the risk of accidents. Pay attention to road signs and adjust your speed according to the driving conditions.

Buckle Up

Seatbelts are your first line of defense in the event of an accident. Ensure that all passengers are buckled up properly, regardless of the distance you’re covering. Seatbelts save lives, and their use is non-negotiable for safe travels.

Avoid Distractions

Distractions such as texting, calling, or fiddling with the radio can divert your attention from the road. Stay focused on driving and keep electronic devices out of reach. If necessary, designate a passenger to handle navigation or other tasks.

Weather Awareness

Keep an eye on weather forecasts for your route. Unfavorable weather conditions like heavy rain or snow can affect road safety. Plan accordingly, and if conditions become hazardous, consider postponing your trip or finding a safe place to wait it out.

Emergency Kit

Pack a basic emergency kit, including a first aid box, flashlight, spare tire, jack, jumper cables, and essential tools. Being prepared for unforeseen circumstances ensures that you can handle minor issues without jeopardizing your safety.

Respect Traffic Rules

Familiarize yourself with and adhere to national and local traffic rules and regulations. Be courteous to other drivers, follow proper lane discipline, and practice defensive driving. Don’t take out your tiredness, anger, or irritation on the other drivers. Be respectful. Mutual respect on the road contributes to a safer driving environment.

Stay Informed

Keep yourself informed about road conditions, construction zones, and any potential hazards along your route. Radio updates and navigation apps can provide real-time information to help you make informed decisions during your journey.

Tips and Reminders

Taking long drives can be an exciting adventure, but to ensure a smooth journey and avoid potential troubles, it’s crucial to consider various factors and adhere to key tips. Here are some considerations and reminders:

• Take Regular Breaks: Scheduling breaks every couple of hours to stretch your legs and refresh your mind helps. Staying alert and avoiding fatigue is also crucial for safe driving.
• Pack an Emergency Kit: Carrying a well-equipped and well-stocked emergency kit, including a first aid box, flashlight, blankets, and basic tools is also important. The kit must include necessary medications, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition if it is to be useful in actual emergencies.
• Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart: Bring an ample supply of water and healthy snacks to stay hydrated and energized. Avoid heavy or greasy foods that could contribute to fatigue.
• Entertainment and Connectivity: Long drives can be tedious and boring so prepare a playlist, audiobooks, or podcasts for entertainment. Ensure your phone is charged and consider a car charger or power bank.
• Fuel Up: Keep your vehicle’s fuel tank adequately filled, especially in more remote areas. Make sure you know the locations of gas stations along your route.
• Notify Someone of Your Plans: Inform a friend or family member about your travel plans, including your route and estimated arrival time. Stay connected during the journey, providing updates when possible so they know that you are still alive.
• Obey Traffic Laws: Adhere to speed limits, traffic rules, and regulations. Practice defensive driving and remain attentive to your surroundings to stay safe.
• Use the Rest Areas Wisely: Taking advantage of designated rest areas for breaks and meals. If you are feeling drowsy, it’s safer to pull over and rest before continuing.

By considering these safety tips and reminders, you can enhance your safety and enjoyment during long drives, making the journey a positive and memorable experience not only for you but also for the people who joined you on the trip. These will also help keep the other drivers and road user stay safe on the road with you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For your reference, here are some common questions and answers about how to stay safe on the road:

1. What is the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and how does it relate to long drives?

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is a government agency responsible for overseeing land transportation and ensuring road safety. While it sets rules and regulations for drivers, its influence extends to promoting safe practices, including those relevant to long drives.

2. Is there a specific speed limit for long drives set by the LTO?

Speed limits may vary depending on the type of road and location. Always adhere to posted speed limits and drive at a safe and comfortable speed, considering road conditions, weather, and visibility.

3. What are the key vehicle maintenance checks recommended by the LTO before embarking on a long drive?

The LTO advises checking tires, brakes, lights, fluid levels, and overall vehicle condition. Regular maintenance ensures a reliable and safe vehicle for long journeys.

4. Are there rest recommendations from the LTO for long drives?

Yes, the LTO encourages drivers to take regular breaks during long drives. Rest stops help combat fatigue, keeping drivers alert and enhancing overall road safety.

5. Does the LTO provide guidelines for driving in adverse weather conditions during long trips?

While specific guidelines may not be provided, the LTO emphasizes the importance of adjusting driving behavior in adverse weather. Slow down, increase following distance, and use headlights as needed.

6. Are there LTO-approved emergency kits for long drives?

The LTO recommends a well-equipped emergency kit, including a first aid box, flashlight, blankets, and basic tools. Personalize it based on your needs and any specific requirements.

7. How can I stay informed about road conditions during a long drive, as suggested by the LTO?

Stay updated through radio broadcasts, navigation apps, and online platforms that provide real-time information about road conditions, construction, and potential hazards.

8. Does the LTO have specific guidelines for driving at night during long journeys?

While not explicitly stated, the LTO emphasizes the importance of proper vehicle lighting and staying vigilant at night. Ensure all lights are functioning correctly, and maintain heightened awareness during nighttime driving.

9. What role does the LTO play in promoting responsible driving behavior during long trips?

The LTO sets the framework for traffic rules and regulations, contributing to a culture of responsible driving. It encourages drivers to follow traffic laws, prioritize safety, and be considerate of fellow road users.

10. Are there LTO-approved apps or tools for navigation during long drives?

The LTO doesn’t endorse specific apps, but it encourages the use of reliable navigation tools to plan routes, locate services, and stay on course during long journeys.

By staying informed about LTO rules and safety tips andbrecommendations, drivers can contribute to safer roads and enjoy a secure and pleasant experience during their long drives. Always prioritize safety and responsible driving practices.

Summary

Long drives can be enjoyable and stress-free when safety is a top priority. By following these LTO safety tips, along with responsible driving practices, and careful observance of road rules and regulations, you and your fellow road users can surely reach your destination safely. You can also stay safe by making sure that you are aware of new and updated rules and by keeping your eyes peeled for road signs and oncoming dangers. By adopting these guidelines, you can also contribute to a culture of responsible driving and help make the open roads safer for everyone. If you feel like you can observe these tips to stay safe, then by all means, take a couple of days off and go on a long drive to enjoy the benefits of one. Safe travels!