Driving on the right side of the highway means adhering to a fundamental traffic rule in the Philippines that helps maintain order and safety on the roads. By driving on the right, drivers ensure that they are positioned correctly to pass oncoming vehicles safely and to overtake slower-moving traffic when necessary. This rule is essential for preventing accidents, especially on narrow or busy roads where clear lanes of traffic are crucial for everyone’s safety.
Also read: Driving a Car: Which Lane to Use in a Three (3) Lane Expressway
It’s important to know everything about driving on the right side of the highway to avoid confusion, prevent accidents, and comply with local traffic laws. Understanding this rule ensures that drivers can navigate the local roads confidently and responsibly, contributing to smoother traffic flow and reducing the risk of collisions. Being informed about driving regulations helps create a safer environment for all road users, promoting harmony and efficiency in transportation across the country. With this guide, we hope to help you understand why this rule is important and how it can be used to navigate highways responsibly.
Driving on the Right Side of the Highway
Driving on the right side of the highway is essential for maintaining safe and efficient traffic flow. This practice helps to organize the movement of vehicles, ensuring that those traveling in opposite directions are separated by designated lanes. By driving on the right, drivers reduce the risk of head-on collisions, which can be catastrophic on high-speed roads. This standard also simplifies navigation, as it provides a consistent framework for drivers to anticipate and react to the flow of traffic.
To drive on the right side of the highway, always keep to the rightmost lane that corresponds to your direction of travel. When encountering oncoming vehicles, maintain your position on the right to allow them to pass safely on your left. If you need to overtake another vehicle going in the same direction, move into the left lane temporarily after ensuring it’s safe to do so and signal your intention to change lanes. Adhering to these practices helps to maintain order on the road and ensures the safety of all motorists.
Why Drive on the Right Side?
Did you know that we didn’t always drive on the right side of the road in the Philippines? Yep, it’s true. But on March 10, 1945, the Philippines, like in many countries, were required to drive the vehicles on the right side of the highway, thanks to the provisions of Executive Order No. 34.
E.O. 34 is a rule designed to maintain organized traffic flow and reduce the cost of vehicles and risk of accidents, especially head-on collisions. By staying on the right, you ensure that vehicles moving in opposite directions are properly separated. Plus, you get to enjoy the following benefits as well:
- Safety: Driving on the right helps reduce the risk of head-on collisions, as vehicles traveling in opposite directions are separated by lanes.
- Consistency: Consistent adherence to this rule allows for predictable traffic patterns, making it easier for drivers to anticipate maneuvers and react accordingly.
- Legal Compliance: Following the rule of driving on the right ensures compliance with local traffic laws, promoting orderly and lawful driving behavior.
- Efficiency: Proper lane discipline facilitates smoother overtaking and passing maneuvers, reducing congestion and improving overall traffic efficiency.
- Clarity: Driving on the right side minimizes confusion among drivers, especially at intersections and during lane changes, enhancing road safety.
- International Standard: Many countries drive on the right side, making it an international standard that helps facilitate driving across borders and in diverse regions.
- Reduced Accidents: With clear separation of traffic flows, the likelihood of accidents, particularly head-on collisions, is significantly reduced.
By driving on the right side of the road, motorists contribute to a safer, more organized driving environment that benefits everyone on the road.
Rules Regarding Driving on the Right Side of the Highway
When driving on the highway in countries like the Philippines, then here are some rules that you need to remember::
1. Stay in the Right Lane
Always drive in the rightmost lane that corresponds to your direction of travel.
2. Pass on the Left
When passing other vehicles traveling in the same direction, move into the left lane briefly, ensuring it’s safe and legal to do so.
3. Yield to Oncoming Traffic
When encountering vehicles coming from the opposite direction, maintain your position on the right side of your lane to allow them to pass safely on your left.
4. Use Turn Signals
Signal your intention to change lanes or overtake by using your turn signals to communicate with other drivers.
5. Obey Traffic Signs and Markings
Pay attention to road signs and lane markings that indicate where and when lane changes are permitted.
6. Follow Speed Limits
Adhere to posted speed limits to maintain safe driving conditions and prevent accidents.
7. Use Seat Belts
Ensure that all occupants of the vehicle are wearing seat belts for safety.
8. Be Considerate of Others
Drive courteously and be mindful of other road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and fellow motorists.
9. Keep a Safe Following Distance
Maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead to allow for adequate braking in case of sudden stops.
10. Avoid Distractions
Stay focused on the road and avoid distractions such as using mobile phones or engaging in other activities while driving.
Following these rules helps ensure orderly and safe driving practices on highways and contributes to overall road safety.
Additional Rules
Some other rules regarding driving on the right side of the highway include:
Overtaking Vehicles
If you need to overtake a slower vehicle traveling in the same direction, move to the left side of your lane when it’s safe and legal to do so. Signal your intention to overtake, check for clear visibility ahead, and proceed carefully.
Lane Selection on Two-Lane Carriageways
On highways with two lanes for two-way traffic, keep your vehicle in the appropriate lane based on your direction of travel. Do not cross to the other side of the road unless it’s necessary and safe, even if there are no solid lane markings.
Lane Selection on Carriageways with More Than Two Lanes
If you’re driving on a highway with more than two lanes, choose the rightmost lane that’s suitable for your direction of travel. Use the left lane only for overtaking or when preparing to make a left turn. This practice helps maintain traffic organization and allows for smoother lane changes.
Video: Why is the Philippines a Left-hand Drive Country?
Have you ever wondered why we drive on the right side of the highway in the Philippines? Well, if you watch this video from ABS-CBN News, then you’ll get your answer:
Summary
Driving on the right side of the highway is crucial for ensuring safety and order on Philippine roads. Whether you’re planning a trip or just refreshing your knowledge of local regulations, you must make sure that you follow the rules and practice responsible driving habits, in order to make the roads safer for everyone. Always remember: Safe driving begins with you. So, next time you need to go, remember to drive on the right side and stay vigilant on the highways for a secure and enjoyable journey.