DOTr issues implementing rules, regulations of Anti-Distracted Driving Act

The Department of Transportation on Wednesday issued the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 10913 (An Act Defining and Penalizing Distracted Driving).

With the publication on Wednesday, the IRR will be effective after 15 calendar days.

Under the IRR, the following acts constitute distracted driving, whether the driver performs them while vehicle is in motion or is temporary stopped at a traffic light or intersection:

• Using a mobile communications device to write, send, or read a text-based communication, or to make or receive calls, and other similar acts; and
• Using an electronic entertainment or computing device to play games, watch movies, surf the internet, compose messages, read e-books, perform calculation, and other similar acts.

Drivers won't be cited for distracted driving if they use mobile communications devices using hands-free function via earphones, speaker phone, microphone, or similar devices.

The IRR also call for the devices to be placed not more than four inches from the dashboard so as not to interfere with the driver's line of sight.

Exemptions

A motorist shall not be called for distracted driving if using a mobile phone for an emergency call to a law enforcement agency to report a crime or prohibited acts, health care provider in instances requiring immediate medical attention, fire department in event of fire or explosion, and other emergency services such as rendering electric, gas, water, chemical, towing and other similar services.

Penalties

Any driver found violating any provision of the IRR of the RA 10913 shall be penalized with the following:

• A fine of P5,000 for the first offense
• A fine of P10,000 for the second offense
• A fine of P15,000 and suspension of driver's license for three months for the third offense
• A fine of P20,000 and revocation of driver's license for the fourth and succeeding offenses

Public info campaign

The DOTr and the Land Transportation Office, in coordination with the Philippine Information Agency, Department of Education, Department of Interior and Local Government, Philippine National Police, and private agencies and organizations shall undertake information, education, and communication campaign for six months from the effectivity of the IRR.

Late last month the government suspended the enforcement of the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, which took effect on May 18, amid calls by lawmakers to review its implementing rules and regulation due to public confusion on the prohibited acts under the law.

Transportation officials clarified that accessories such as rosaries, figurines, dashboard toys, crucifix, and stickers are allowed under the RA 10913.

The clarification was issued due to confusion caused by the implementation of the law, especially after rosaries were initially listed as among the “distractions,” along with mobile phones or gadgets on dashboards. —KG, GMA News