Understanding RA 10913: The Anti-Distracted Driving Act (ADDA)

Republic Act No. 10913, also known as the Anti-Distracted Driving Act (ADDA), is a law in the Philippines designed to reduce road accidents by banning the use of mobile devices and electronic gadgets while driving. This includes making calls, texting, browsing the internet, and using entertainment apps, whether the vehicle is in motion or temporarily stopped at traffic lights or intersections. The law applies to all types of vehicles, including public, private, and even non-motorized vehicles like bicycles and animal-drawn carriages.

Knowing and following RA 10913 is crucial for ensuring road safety and preventing accidents. Drivers must stay focused and avoid any activities that can divert their attention from the road. Ignorance of this law can result in hefty fines, suspension of driver’s licenses, or even permanent revocation, emphasizing the importance of being aware and compliant. Not being aware of RA 10913 can lead to severe penalties, and more importantly, it increases the risk of accidents, endangering the lives of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

What is RA 10913

RA 10913, known as the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, is a law in the Philippines that prohibits the use of electronic devices while driving. It applies to all motor vehicles, including public, private, and even non-motorized vehicles like bicycles and animal-drawn carriages. The law aims to protect the people from the harmful effects of distracted driving and to prevent accidents by banning activities such as texting, calling, and using entertainment gadgets while the vehicle is in motion or temporarily stopped at a traffic light or intersection.

This law addresses the problem of distracted driving, which can lead to severe accidents and fatalities on the road. By restricting the use of mobile devices, RA 10913 enhances road safety and encourages responsible driving. It is necessary to safeguard the public from the dangerous consequences of using electronic devices while driving. 

Key Provisions of RA 10913

RA 10913, or the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, outlines specific regulations to reduce road accidents caused by distracted driving. This law sets clear prohibitions and penalties to ensure drivers stay focused while on the road. Here are the main provisions and their detailed explanations:

1. Prohibited Activities

  • Making or Receiving Calls: Drivers cannot hold their mobile phones to make or receive calls while driving. This includes when the vehicle is temporarily stopped at a traffic light or intersection.
  • Texting and Messaging: Composing, sending, or reading text messages or emails is not allowed. This ensures drivers keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
  • Using Entertainment Gadgets: Activities such as watching movies, playing games, or using apps are prohibited. This prevents distractions that could lead to accidents.

2. Exemptions

  • Emergency Calls: Drivers are allowed to make or take calls in cases of emergency, such as reporting crimes or accidents. This ensures that urgent situations can still be communicated.
  • Emergency Vehicles: Personnel operating emergency vehicles like ambulances and fire trucks are exempt when responding to emergencies. This allows them to perform their duties without legal hindrance.

3. Penalties for Violations

  • First Offense: A fine of Php 5,000 is imposed on the first violation. This serves as an initial warning to deter future offenses.
  • Second Offense: The fine increases to Php 10,000 for the second violation. This escalation aims to reinforce the seriousness of the law.
  • Third and Subsequent Offenses: A third offense incurs a fine of Php 15,000 and a three-month suspension of the driver’s license. 
  • Further violations can lead to a Php 20,000 fine and permanent revocation of the license.

4. Special Penalties for Certain Drivers

  • Public Utility Vehicles and School Services: Drivers of these vehicles face a Php 30,000 fine and a three-month license suspension if caught within 50 meters of a school. This higher penalty reflects the increased responsibility of transporting passengers, especially children.
  • Non-Motorized Vehicles: Cyclists and drivers of non-motorized vehicles can also be fined. If they cannot pay the fine, their vehicles may be impounded.

5. Device Placement and Usage

  • Hands-Free Devices: Using hands-free functions like speakerphones or earphones is allowed as long as it doesn’t obstruct the driver’s view. This provision allows for safer ways to use communication devices.
  • GPS and Dashcams: Devices like GPS units and dashcams can be mounted on the dashboard or windshield. However, their placement must not interfere with the driver’s line of sight.

These provisions ensure that drivers remain attentive and focused, significantly reducing the risk of road accidents caused by distractions.

Coverage of the Law

RA 10913 covers a wide range of vehicles, including but not limited to:

  • public and private motor vehicles, 
  • agricultural machinery, 
  • construction equipment, and 
  • other forms of conveyances like bicycles and animal-drawn carts. 

Simply put, as long as these vehicles are operated in public spaces, they fall under the law’s jurisdiction. This broad coverage ensures that the roads are safe for everyone, regardless of the type of vehicle being used. The law also applies to vehicles temporarily stopped at traffic lights, emphasizing that drivers must always stay focused on the road.

Enforcement of RA 10913

The strict enforcement of ADDA ensures compliance and enhances road safety. Various government agencies are responsible for monitoring and penalizing violators to uphold the law. Here are the details on enforcement:

1. Authorized Agencies

2. Detection Methods

  • Monitoring: Enforcers use high-definition cameras and on-ground monitoring to detect distracted driving, even in vehicles with tinted windows.
  • Indicators: Trained personnel can identify signs of distracted driving through vehicle movements and driver behavior.

3. Penalties

  • Fines and Suspensions: First-time offenders face a fine of Php 5,000, with increasing fines for subsequent offenses, and potential suspension or revocation of the driver’s license.
  • Additional Penalties: Public utility vehicle drivers and those within a 50-meter radius of school premises face higher penalties and license suspensions.

Effective enforcement ensures that drivers adhere to the law, thereby reducing road accidents and enhancing overall traffic safety.

Settling Violations

Drivers apprehended for violating RA 10913 can settle their fines at the nearest LTO office, MMDA main office, or selected Bayad Centers. This ensures that penalties are properly paid and recorded. The process aims to be convenient for violators while ensuring adherence to the law.

Cyclists and operators of vehicles that do not require licenses are also subject to penalties. Their vehicles may be impounded if fines are not settled within six months, ensuring that all road users comply with the law.

Video: Quick Facts About RA 10913 (anti-Distracted Driving Act)

To better understand RA 10913, watch this video from GMA Integrated News explaining the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, its provisions, penalties, and exemptions. The video provides clear examples of what constitutes distracted driving and how to avoid violations. It’s a useful resource for both new and experienced drivers.

Summary

RA 10913, the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, aims to improve road safety by prohibiting the use of mobile devices and electronic gadgets while driving. The law covers a wide range of vehicles and imposes significant penalties for violations. It includes exemptions for emergency situations and allows hands-free device usage. Various government agencies enforce the law, ensuring compliance across the Philippines. By understanding and adhering to this law, drivers can contribute to safer roads for everyone.