RA 2000: Limited Access Highway Act Philippines

After the recent incident involving a “kamote” rider who bragged on social media about riding a motorcycle below 400cc on the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), many experts and riders are supporting the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in locating and penalizing the rider. Videos have surfaced explaining why the rider should face consequences, not just for breaking the law but also for overspeeding, disregarding traffic signs (DTS), and disrespecting traffic enforcers.

Also Read: Republic Act 4136: Land Transportation and Traffic Code Rules

One expert in particular says that the rider violated the Limited Access Highway Act of 1957, also known as Republic Act 2000. But what exactly is RA 2000? Well, this law regulates traffic and access on highways, parkways, or freeways to ensure smooth traffic flow and enhance public safety. In this article, let’s take a closer look at RA 2000 to understand how the rider put himself and others at risk with his daring New Year’s Act.

Republic Act 2000 Limited Access Highway Act

What is the Limited Access Highway Act (Republic Act 2000)

Republic Act 2000, also known as the Limited Access Highway Act of 1957, is a law in the Philippines. It’s all about making rules for special highways where only certain vehicles are allowed, and property owners don’t have full access. The law focuses on keeping people safe, promoting general well-being, and making traffic run smoothly.

This law, passed on June 22, 1957, helps with planning and managing these special highways. It covers things like deciding where these roads should be, how they should look, and making sure they’re safe. It also covers information regarding land acquisition for these roads as well as the designing, financing, and the penalties for unlawful use of such.

What is a Limited Access Facility?

Imagine highways specifically designed for smooth traffic flow, where neighboring landowners don’t have free rein. This is what the law defines as limited access facilities because this type of highway is not for everyone. If you are one of those who frequently cruise through NLEX and SCTEX, then know that these expressways, like others in the country, are considered Limited Access Facilities, which means they come with specific limitations and responsibilities for users.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) holds the reins when it comes to important decisions regarding creation and use of limited access highway facilities. They are also in charge of planning, designating, and keeping an eye on these special highways based on the traffic needs of the road users.

Key Provisions

Let’s break down the key provisions outlined in the Republic Act 2000, or as it’s commonly known, the Limited Access Highway Act:

Crafting the Design

Ra 2000 also hands over the design keys to the DPWH. The Department gets to shape and manage limited access facilities, deciding who gets in and when.

Getting the Land

Need a piece of land for these special highways? Ra 2000 allows the government to snag it through various means – gifts, purchases, or even condemnation, if necessary.

Court Priority

When it comes to legal matters, the Limited Access Highway Act puts property acquisition for these facilities on the VIP list. Court proceedings move to the front of the line faster compared with other matters.

Mixing Old with New

Ever wondered if existing streets could become part of these special highways? Well, RA 2000 allows for the incorporation of new or existing streets into the limited access club.

Side Streets and Service Roads

Not forgetting the local scene, the Limited Access Highway Act also greenlights the creation of local service roads. These are roads adjacent to limited access facilities, keeping things smooth on the local level.

Guidelines to Using Limited Access Highways

Passing through expressways like NLEX and SCTEX comes with corresponding responsibilities and proper usage that all motorists should adhere to. These are all covered by the Republic Act 2000 (Limited Access Highway Act) in order to bring order and efficiency to our roads, ensuring a smooth ride for everyone.  

Some of these limitations and responsibilities for users of these limited access facilities include the following:

Entry and Exit Points

Every expressway has designated entry and exit points. Vehicles are only permitted to enter or exit through these specified areas.

Respect the Fences

It’s against the law to damage or destroy the barriers surrounding the expressway. These structures are there for a reason – to keep everyone safe.

No Loitering Allowed

Getting off, boarding, or lingering inside the expressway is strictly prohibited. Stopping or parking is only allowed in emergencies.

Motorcycle Restrictions

Motorcycles with an engine displacement below 400cc and all tricycles are not allowed on the expressway. This rule ensures a safer and more efficient flow of traffic.

Roadworthy Vehicles Only

Only vehicles in proper condition for road travel are permitted on the expressway. This ensures the safety of all motorists.

No U-turns Allowed

Performing U-turns or switching lanes against the flow is strictly forbidden. Even if there seems to be a gap in the barriers, making a U-turn is not permitted.

It’s crucial to remember that there are penalties for those who violate these regulations. So, on your next road trip, familiarize yourself with the rules governing the roads you’ll be traversing to ensure a smooth and safe journey. 

Video: Can I Use my Motorcycle on the Expressway?

To find out if you are legally allowed to ride your motorcycle in any of the various limited access facilities in the country, you may watch this explainer video posted by NLEX Corporation:

Summary

The Limited Access Highway Act (Republic Act 2000) plays a crucial role in regulating traffic and access on special highways in the country, such as NLEX and SLEX. This law not only ensures public safety, promotes general well-being, and maintains smooth traffic flow, but also details how the government takes charge of planning, designing, and overseeing these limited access facilities.

With RA 2000 in place, the motorists who are using these expressways are expected to adhere to a set of rules, otherwise, they can look forward to facing hefty LTO fines and penalties. To avoid these, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the rules governing the roads you’ll be traversing for a smooth and safe journey before you go on a trip next time.

Contact Information

For more questions about the Limited Access Highway Act, you may reach out to: 

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)

Office Address: 2nd St., Port Area, Manila
Contact No(s).: (02) 5304-3700, 165-02 (Hotline), 09616847084 (Mobile/Viber)
Fax No.: (02) 5304-3910
Email: malaluan.loreta@dpwh.gov.ph
Official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/dpwhph

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