Module 1&2 Traffic Management PDF

**TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION WITH DRIVING** **MODULE 1: HISTORY OF LOCOMOTIVES AND VARIOUS ANCIENT TRANSPORTATION** **FIRST HUMAN STEPS** - were designed to facilitate movement as effectively and fast as possible from one point to another. **FOLLOWING THE ANIMAL TRAILS AND RIVE...

**TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION WITH DRIVING** **MODULE 1: HISTORY OF LOCOMOTIVES AND VARIOUS ANCIENT TRANSPORTATION** **FIRST HUMAN STEPS** - were designed to facilitate movement as effectively and fast as possible from one point to another. **FOLLOWING THE ANIMAL TRAILS AND RIVER BANKS -** early humans found that their journeys placed them in direct conflict with animals; that when meeting on Narrow Mountain trails, primitive people soon learned to establish the first rules of right of way. **HUMANS** - evaded the incoming wild animals along the way to be free from the pangs of death. **PRESENT TIME** - the larger the vehicle may intimidate the smaller one, whether in speed or in size. **DOMESTICATION OF ANIMALS -** as beast of burden came the necessity for rules of the road and parking. **CAMELS -** were situated around the **OASIS** according to the established hierarchy of the owners. The more favored or powerful the owner, the closer the campsite was to the water and the shade. **This must have created the world as first parking lot to lessen congestion and ease crowding.** **TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL HAD ITS BEGINNING IN ANCIENT TIMES.** **JULIUS CAESAR'S -** entrance of Chariot and Arts in business centers of Roman Empire which were prohibited in certain laws. **A SYSTEM OF TRAFFIC CONTROL AND MANAGEMENT** - was in existence in Babylon in the year 200 B.C to prevent congestion from there on traffic management become a must of our present time. **19TH AND 20TH CENTURIES -** people's everyday lives have been changed to extraordinary degrees and in previously unimagined ways by technological advances. Achievements in transportation, communications, and the conversion of energy have affected a modern society characterized by **GREAT SPEED**. **AS EARLY AS 300 B.C**. - the civilization of Egypt, Mesopotamia, and then for wheeled vehicles. **ROMANS** - further made innovations on road building from a city-state by conquering other small states; they built roads into the conquered regions to help consolidate their gains. **GREAT MEN IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY** - provided wide range of knowledge in the development of transportation facilities. **ENTIENNE LENOIR** - initiated the development of the internal combustion engine which paved way for the development of the automobile. The invention of motor vehicle enabled man to go places with much ease than when he was using animal-drawn carriages. **HENRY FORD'S** - assembly-line process further transformed society by putting the public on wheels and was adopted for the mass production of many other goods. The rapid development of computers in the mid-20th has also revolutionized motor vehicle technology like those found in highly industrialized countries where their production line of automobiles is mostly done by robots programmed by computers. It is estimated that over **100,000 patents created the modern automobiles**. **LEONARDO DA VINCI AND ISAAC NEWTON -** Starting with the **FIRST THEORETICAL PLAN FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE** that had been drawn up by both **of them.** **NICOLAS JOSEPH CUGNOT -** In **1769**, the very first self-propelled road vehicle was a military tractor invented by French engineer and mechanic, he used a steam engine to power his vehicle, built under his instructions at the **PARIS ARSENAL** by **mechanic BREZIN**. **ROBERT ANDERSON** - of Scotland invented the first crude electric carriage. Between 1832 and 1839 (the exact year uncertain). **SMALL-SCALE ELECTRIC CAR** - was designed by **PROFESSOR STRATINGH** of Groningen, Holand, and built by his assistant **CHRISTOPHER BECKER** in 1835. **THOMAS DAVENPORT AND SCOTSMEN ROBERT DAVIDSON --** around 1842 both American invented the Practical and more successful electric road vehicles. Both inventors were the first to use **non- rechargeable electric cells**. Frenchmen **GASTON PLANTE** invented a **BETTER STORAGE BATTERY** in 1865. His fellow countrymen **CAMILLE FAURE** improved the **STORAGE THE BATTERY** in 1881. This improved capacity storage battery paved the way for electric vehicles to flourish. **FRANCE** and **GREAT BRITAIN -** were the first nations to support the widespread development of electric vehicles in the late 1800s. A Belgian built electric racing car called **"LA JAMAIS CONTENTE"** set a world record for land speed- **68mph-** designed by **CAMILLE JENATZY.** **THE DECLINE OF THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT ABOUT BY SEVERAL MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS;** a\. **By the 1920s,** America had a **better system of roads** that now connected cities, bringing with it the need for **longer- range** vehicles. b\. The discovery of **TEXAS CRUDE OIL** reduced the price of gasoline so that it was affordable to the average consumer. c\. The invention of **ELECTRIC STARTER** by **CHARLES KETTERING IN** 1992 eliminated the need for the hand crank. The **modern automobile** was invented in Germany by **KARL BENZ** in 1885. The **FIRST AMERICAN CARS** were made by **DURYEA BROTHERS** in 1892. In 1896, **FORD** produced an inexpensive **ASSEMBLY LINE CAR**, the **MODEL T.** **THE LAND TRANSPORTATION TIMELINE** A. **6500 B.C**. -- the **wheel** is invented by the **Sumerians.** B. **3500 B.C.** -- **animals pull wheeled vehicles** in **Mesopotamia.** C. **44 B.C.** -- the **wheel barrow** is invented by the **Chinese.** D. **1769 A.D. --** the **first steam-powered vehicle,** with three wheels, is invented in **France.** E. **1791** -- the **bicycle** is invented in Scotland F. **1792** -- the **ambulance** is created for **Napoleon's army** G. **1803** -- the **steam locomotive** is invented for **railroads.** H. **1869** -- the **modern motorcycle** is invented I. **1874** -- the **cable streetcar** is invented J. **1885** -- the **automobile** is invented K. **1892** -- the **tractor** is invented L. **1924** -- the **diesel truck** is invented M. **1964** -- **"BULLET" Train** introduces in **Japan** with top speed of **130 mph** Linking **Tokyo and Osaka.** N. **1983** -- **TGV (Train a Grande Vitesse**) introduce in **France,** linking **Paris and Lyon** with maximum speed of **168 mph.** However, with the tremendous increase in the number of motor vehicles, the system became **ANTIQUATED**. It could no longer accommodate the voluminous traffic users. In the Philippines, in her quest to cope-up with the demands of land transportation adopted inventions and discoveries of Japan, the United States and some European countries. Various transportation system like the metro rail transit, faster air-conditioned buses, and sleeker motor vehicles were introduced in the country, in addition, they also adopted the modern technique of road building and constructed the first expressways North of Manila -- the North Diversion Road, Flyovers, pedestrian and motor vehicle overpass were also constructed not only within the Metropolitan Manila but also other urbanized places outside of Manila to expedite the movement of people, and achieve a safer traffic way. **EVOLUTION OF MOTOR VEHICLES** **MOTORIZED TRANSPORTATION** - is one of the greatest inventions that appeared for the three hundred years. The invention in transportation came along with the numerous inventions during the period of **"INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION".** **A. STEAM ENGINE** -- was perfected in the 1760s by **JAMES WATT**. The invention provided power for many industries and factories in England. **B. STEAM ENGINE IN WATER NAVIGATION** - By the end of 18th century, French, Scottish, and American inventors attempted to apply the steam engine in water navigation. (Groiler) 1\. **FRENCHMAN JACQUES PERIER** built a **steamboat** in 1775 2\. **ROBERT FULTON** launched the **steamboat Clermont** on the **Hudson River** in 1807 3\. The **STEAMER SAVANNAH** **crossed the Atlantic in 1819 and by the 19th century**, steam navigation replaced the sailing vessels. **C. Railroads** ¬-- **Horse-drawn wagons** with wooden wheels and rails had been used in English and European mines during the 17th century. 1\. **RICHARD TREVITHICK** and some other inventors adapted the primitive **steam locomotives to the mine railway** between 1797 and 1813. 2**. GEORGE STEPHENSON** built and equipped the 32-km Stockton and Darlington railway, the first public railway in the world powered by steam locomotive which eventually began railroad building in England **D. THE INVENTION OF BICYCLE IN THE EARLY 19TH CENTURY** - served as a nursery of automobile builders. One of the modern ancestors of bicycle was the **HOBBY HORSE**. The wheels were made by wood, with tires of iron, and the riders pushed themselves along with their feet on the ground. 1\. The **GERMAN BARON KARL VON DRAIS** in 1817 introduced a **STEERABLE WHEEL,** creating the **"DRAISIENNE"** or **DANDY HORSE.** 2\. In 1838, **KIRKPATRICK MCMILLAN,** a Scottish blacksmith, made the **FIRST MACHINE WITH PEDALS**, which were attached to and drove the rear wheel by means of cranks. **E. MOTOR VEHICLE** -- the **first mode of transportation to challenge the railroads.** The following are some of the notable events leading to the invention of motorized vehicles for road traffic. 1\. **FERDINAND VERBIEST,** a Jesuit Missionary in **China**, built the **first steam-powered vehicle** around 1672 **as a toy for the Chinese Emperor.** 2\. In 1870-1871, **NICOLAS JOSEPH CUGNOT** demonstrate his **FARDIER A VAPEUR (STEAM DRAY**), an experimental **steam-driven artillery tractor.** 3\. In 1789, **OLIVER EVANS** was granted the first automobile patent in the **United States** 4\. In 1838, **CHRISTIAN FRIEDRICH SCHONTEIN** discovered in principle the **HYDROGEN FUEL CELL (DIESEL),** one of the technologies hailed as replacement for gasoline as an energy source for cars. 5\. In 1858, **JEAN JOSEPH ETIENE LENOIR** also known as **JEAN J. LENOIR**, a Belgian engineer developed the internal combustion engine. It was **LENOIR'S** invention which is considered to be the first commercially successful of its kind. 6\. In 1885, **KARL BENZ** built his **FIRST AUTOMOBILE** in Mannheim, and he was granted a patent for his automobile on 29 January 1886, He began the first production of automobiles in 1888, after **BERTHA BENZ**, his wife, had proved -- with the first long distance trip in August 1888, from **MANNHEIM TO PFORZHEIM** and **BACK.** 7\. In 1889, **GOTTLIEB DAIMLER** and **WILHELM MAYBACH** designed a vehicle **from scratch to be an automobile,** rather than a horse-drawn carriage fitted with an engine. **They also credited for the first motorcycle in 1866.** 8\. In 1893, German inventor **RUDOLF DIESEL** developed the **DIESEL ENGINE** also known as **COMPRESSION-IGNITION ENGINE** is an internal combustion engine that uses the heat compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel (Delizo, 2014) **VARIOUS ANCIENT MODES OF TRANSPORTATION (MANPOWER, ANIMAL, AND WIND POWER)** **MAN'S NEED TO TRAVEL DATES BACK FROM ONE PLACE TO ANOTHER** - to enable them to survive and others for various reasons. **NOMADIC -** They constantly migrate from one place to another according to their own detailed knowledge of exploitable resources. **NOMAD** - from the Greek word, **"TO PASTURE**", was originally used to refer to **pastoralists.** **PASTORALISTS -** groups that migrate in establish pattern to find pasture lands for their domestics' livestock. **THE TERM HAS BEEN GENERALIZED TO INCLUDE ALL NON-SETTLED POPULATIONS, OF WHICH THERE ARE THREE TYPES:** 1\. **COMPRISES FORAGING** - populations who wander in search of their food. It is estimated that 99 percent of all humanity once lived in this way. 2**. PASTORAL NOMADS** - who move with their families, belongings, and herds of cattle, camel, sheep, or goats through an annual cycle of pastures whose availability is determined by the alternation of hot and cold or wet and dry seasons. 3\. **COMPRISES GYPSIES -** tinkers, and similar itinerants in urban and complex societies. **EARLY HUMAN BEINGS** - traveled to places by foot, carrying their loads on their backs or on their heads, while others pulled crude sleds. They used every means to make their transportation with the least time and effort. **A. MAN POWER** - early man, who had no domesticated animals carried his own burdens. More today, manpower is important in transportation in many parts of the world. **1. WALKING (TRAVELING BY FOOT)** -- it is commonly cited by reference books and literatures that man first used the power of his own feet in traveling while a load either carried or dragged. Coincidentally, the **English** word **"PEDESTRIAN"** was coined from the **Latin** Word **"PEDESTER**" -- which means **to travel by foot.** **2. CARRYING POLE** -- in **China** and other parts of the **East**, the carrying pole, balanced on one shoulder is a popular carrying device. On islands of the **Pacific**, the ends of the pole are supported by two men, with goods suspended from the pole in between. **3. BACK LOAD AND TUMPLINE** -- in many parts of the world, goods are carried on the back. In **SUBTEMALA,** pots are carried on a wooden framework supported by a tumpline across the forehead. In the **ANDES**, the load is held on the back by a strap passing over the chest. **4. SLEDGE ON ROLLERS** -- the moving heavy burdens was to place them on sledge which rested on a series of rollers. **5. SLEDGE ON RUNNERS** -- a simple sledge, probably man-drawn, was in use at the end of the **Old Stone Age in northern Europe**, as evidence by fragments of wooden runners which survived. **6. TRAVOIS** -- this pole arrangement called. Serves as platform on which the burdens are placed. The platform or crossed-beam poles are then dragged by humans or animals. **B. ANIMAL POWER** -- the domestication of animals greatly increased the potential power available for transportation. **PACK ANIMALS -** were introduced as conveyances mainly to save labor. **A MAN** - can tend several pack animals moving together, each of which (except dogs) can carry more than he usually can. **Little advantage** in speed is gained unless part of the animal carrying capacity is sacrificed. **MENTIONED BELOW WERE SOME OF THE COMMON ANIMALS USED BY HUMAN BEINGS SINCE THE ANCIENT TIMES. SOME PEOPLE GROUPS ARE STILL USING THESE ANIMALS IN THEIR TRANSPORTATION.** **1. OX -- CATTLE -** which were first domesticated in **MESOPOTAMIA,** were used as draft animals to draw war chariots. **OXEN** - are still used as draft animals in many regions of the world. In some parts of **Africa**, they used as pack animals and for riding. **2. REINDEER** -- these were first domesticated in **SIBERIA** in the beginning of the Christian era. in the **Altai Mountains**, they were ridden with **saddles**. Elsewhere, they draw sledges somewhat like dog sledges of the Far North. **3. DOG-** the **first animal domesticated**, is too slight to carry heavy loads. The plain Indians sometimes packed light loads on dogs back, and piled goods on a travois which the dogs dragged. In the North, the dogs team drawing sledges are the chief means of transportation; and in parts of Europe, the dogs are used to **draw small carts**. **4. DONKEY** - the donkey or ass, first domesticated in the **MIDDLE EAST**. Early dogs come to use as a back animal before the domestication of camel. Donkey caravans carry goods between the cities of Southwest Asia and Egypt and the donkey is **STILL THE CHIEF BEAST OF BURDEN AMONG THE FARMERS** of the Near East, the Mediterranean Area and Mexico, where it was introduced from Spain. **5. LLAMA** -- In **PRE-COLUMBIAN AMERICA**, the Llama was the only new world animal other than the dog capable of domestication for use in transport. In the **HIGH ANDES**, the Llama was used as a pack animal by the **Incas** and their Spanish conquerors, as it's by modern **Andean people.** **6. ELEPHANT** -- the **Carthaginians** used African elephant in their war against Rome but in recent centuries, these animals have not been tamed. In India, elephants were formerly used in war and are still employed to some extent for ceremonial processions and big game hunting. In Burma and Thailand, these huge animals are widely used in the lumber industry. **7. HORSE** -- around 2,000 B.C., horse drawn chariots appeared in southwest Asia and 1,000 years later, the Persians arrived with cavalry which gave mobility and power to the German tribes who invaded Europe and to the **CENTRAL ASIAN CONQUEROR GENGHIS KHAN**. In Europe, horses were used to draw wheeled vehicles and for riding for some time until the introduction of mechanized vehicles. **8. CAMEL** - there are two kinds of camel, **THE TWO-HUMPED BACTRIAN CAMEL OF CENTRAL ASIA** and **THE ONE-HUMPED DROMEDARY OF ARABIA** have long been used for transport. The **BACTRIAN CAMEL** - has plodded along the caravan routes between **CHINA** and **IRAN** for at least 2,000 years. It is also used to draw carts. The **DROMEDARY CAMEL -** which has less endurance but it is fleeter and special fast-paced riding camel, is bred by the **ARAB NOMADS**. **9. YAK** - a long-haired type of cattle that lives at high altitudes on the **TIBETAN PLATEAU** and in the neighboring Mountain Regions is ridden is ridden and used as a pack animal at heights were horses and ordinary animal could not survive. **C. WIND POWER** -- man realized the energy from the mass of moving air and learned to utilize such powers to lift rather than to drag. This paved way to invention of air lifted transportation vessels. **1. ANCIENT CHINESE KITE --** kites have been flown as a popular past time in the Far East since beginning of the history. Based on Korean tradition, the kite was first used for transport when Korean general employed one in bridge building. By means of a kite, a cord was conveyed across the river where heavier ropes were fastened and finally the bridge cable. In the 10th century, several European armies experimented with kites in transporting men. **2. DA VINCI'S ORNITHOPTER** -- the great renaissance artist, scientist and engineer, **LEONARDO DA VINCI,** - made study of the flight of the birds and his notebooks sketched a number of **ORNITHOPTER** **(a.k.a. orthopter)** which derives its principal support and propelling from flapping wings like those of a bird. It was not until the 19th century that rigid wings were envisaged. **3. SIEMEN'S ROCKET PLANE** -- **ERNST WERNER VON SIEMENS** - who later achieved fame as an electric industrial. In 1847 designed rocket plane which was to be propelled by the explosive force of gunpowder. Similarly, **Siemens rocket plane was never carried beyond the design stage.** **4. LILIENTHAL GLIDER** -- **OTTO LILIENTHAL -** a German inventor who also made a study of the flight of birds and experimented with **ORNITHOPERS**, going so far as to build a model **ORNITHOPER.** His chief work was with gliders. However, in 1981, he made the first of a number of glider flights which where to exert a profound influence on the development of aviation. **5. SANTOS DUMONT'S AIRSHIP** -- one of the pioneers of lighter-than-air craft was **ALBERTO SANTOS DUMONT** - a Brazilian who experimented with the **STEAM-POWERED BALLOONS** in Paris. He made his first balloon ascent in 1987 and in 1988 completed the construction of his first airship. He, then built several other airships and in 1901, **made a 30-minute round trip flight between St. Louis and the Eiffel Tower.** **6. WRIGHT BROTHERS' FLYING MACHINE** -- inspired by Lilienthal's glider experiments, **ORVILLE** and **WILBUR WRIGHT** began studying the problems of heavier-than-air flight. They built biplane kite then over 200 different wing types which they tested in a wind tunnel of their own invention, before they conducted their first man carrying powered machine. **This flew successfully at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina on Dec. 17, 1903. By 1909,** airplanes became sufficiently accepted to justify beginning commercial manufacture of the machine (Delizo, 2014). **FUNDAMENTALS OF TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT** **TRAFFIC MANAGEME**NT - is best understood by understanding the following commonly used words and terminologies: **TRAFFIC** -- it refers to the movement of persons, goods, or vehicles, either powered by combustion system or animal drawn, from one place to another for the purpose of travel. It's derived from the Latin word **"TRAFFICO"** **meaning to trade.** **TRAFFIC WAY** -- refers to the entire width between boundary lines of every way or place of which any part is open to the use of the public for purposes of vehicular traffic as a matter of right or custom. It is also synonymous to public way. **ROAD** -- it refers to the entire surface of any surface of any street open for to public traffic. It also includes shoulder and sidewalk. **CLASSIFICATION OF ROADS:** - **NATIONAL ROADS** -- these are roads/streets interconnecting provinces and/or cities. - **PROVINCIAL ROADS** -- these are roads/streets interconnecting municipalities and/or cities within province, - **CITY ROADS** ¬-- these are roads/streets interconnecting barangays within the city - **MUNICIPAL ROADS** -- these are roads/streets interconnecting barangays within the municipality - **BARANGAY ROADS** -- these are roads/streets located within barangay which connect sitios or places within barangay. **ROADWAY** -- refers to that part of the traffic way over which motor vehicles pass. For purpose of construction, repair, and/or maintenance. **SHOULDER** -- it refers to either side of the roadway, especially along highways. **SIDEWALK** -- refers to the paved walkway along the side of a street. **PEDESTRIAN** -- refers to a person travelling on foot, whether walking or running. This word is derived from the Latin word **PEDESTER** (going on foot). **THROUGH HIGHWAY** -- it means every highway or portion thereof on which vehicular traffic is given the right-of-way, and the entrances to which vehicular traffic from interesting highways is required by law to yield right-of-way to vehicles on such through highway in obedience to either an authorized stop sign or a yield sign, or other official traffic-control devices. **THRUWAY or THROUGHWAY** -- it is a highway that has no limited entrances and exits such as the expressways, freeways, or motorways. **HIGHWAY** -- it means the entire width between the boundary lines of every way dedicated to a public authority when any part of the way is open to the use of the public for the purposes of vehicular traffic, whether or not to the public authority is maintaining the way. Or, refers to any roads, streets, boulevard avenues used as public thoroughfare. **OPERATION** -- pertains to a course or series of acts to effect or a certain purpose; manner of action; or a vital or natural process of activity. **GIVE WAY** -- it means a driver must not continue or resume his advance or maneuver if by so doing he might compel the drivers of other vehicles to change the direction or speed of their vehicles abruptly **MANAGEMENT** -- it refers to the skillful use of means to accomplish a purpose. **WHAT IS TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT?** **TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT** - is an exclusive function such as planning, organizing, and directing, supervising, coordinating, operating, recording and budgeting traffic affairs. **TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT** - It also refers to all agencies having responsibilities for ascertaining traffic flow requirements, such as planning, approving, funding, construction and/or maintaining public facilities for such movement. **TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT** - it also refers to all agencies responsible for licensing, approving, restricting, stopping, prohibiting, or controlling the use of these facilities. **TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT** - refers to the activities undertaken by a highway transportation agency to improve roadway system safety, efficiency, and effectiveness for both providers and consumers of transportation services. **TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT** - therefore designed to make the traffic way safer for travelers, expedite the movement of traffic, and to provide convenience to the traffic facilities' users. In short, traffic management aims to attain efficiency in the utilization of the traffic way. **TYPES OF TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT** The two distinct types of traffic management are the used or utilization of: **1. TRADITIONAL TRAFFIC ENGINEERING TOOLS OR DEVICES -** to regulate or control traffic, such as traffic lights, traffic signs, or pavement markings, traffic islands, and other devices that could control or direct the flow of traffic. 2\. **Advanced technology** like the **INTELLIGENT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM (ITS**). Examples of the ITS are the installation of road sensors for emergency cars, global positioning devices on motor vehicles, and road sensors attached to the traffic light. like for example, in Cebu city they used roads sensors in their traffic lights. **WHY TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT IS NECESSARY?** The only way to at least cope up with the prevailing traffic related problems is a coordinated traffic management. **Therefore,** traffic management **is necessary in order to solve the traffic related problems and to provide convenience to the traffic facilities' users.** **SPECIFIC TRAFFIC PROBLEMS** Traffic managers and traffic control officers commonly encounter the following traffic-related problems: **TRAFFIC BUILD-UP** - it is characterized by the gradual increasing of traffic users in a given portion of a highway or traffic way. **TRAFFIC CONGESTIONS** - these are conditions on road networks that occurs as use increases, and is characterized by lower speeds, longer trip times, and increased vehicular queuing. **TRAFFIC JAMS (SNARL-UP) -** these are situations in highways in which the movement of traffic users (motor vehicles or pedestrians) is very slow or stationary. **BOTTLENECKS** - these are narrow points or areas in highways where traffic congestions or traffic jams usually occur traffic maybe held up. **GRIDLOCKS** - a state or condition of severe road congestion arising when continuous queues of vehicle block an entire network of intersecting streets, bringing traffic in all directions to a complete standstill. These traffic blockages are usually caused interlocking of intersections grids. **ACCIDENTS** - these are events or incidents which may cause unintentional damage to property, loss of limbs and/or death. **COLLISIONS** - these are incidents or instances of one moving traffic unit or person striking violently against another. **MAJOR CAUSES OF TRAFFIC CONGESTION** The following are the major causes of Traffic Congestion based on studies conducted by authorities: **PHYSICAL INADEQUACY** -- this characterized by lack of roads, narrow bridges, railroad crossing, lack traffic facilities, etc. **POOR CONTROL MEASURES** -- this is characterized by ineffective mechanical control devices, inefficient traffic officers, and poor implementation of traffic laws, rules and regulation. **HUMAN ERRORS** -- Many traffic congestions are caused by slow drivers or poor driving habits, pedestrian mistakes, officers' errors, poor planning, poor legislation; and traffic accidents which are mostly attributed to human errors. **POOR MAINTENANCE** -- oftentimes motor vehicles are stalled in traffic ways because of unrepaired diggings, cracks on road pavement or unfinished road pavement concreting. **ROAD RAGE** -- this is sometimes happened when a motorist couldn't control their anger which provoked to another motorist. **SCOPES OF TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT** In connection with the above stated causes of congestion, authorities considered that a systematic and effective traffic management is needed which includes but not limited to the following: **1. All public surface facilities traversing and parking and all types of conveyances for the movement of persons and things.** This includes the provisions on the controlling traffic flow as well as provisions for the allotments of parking lots or parking places. **2. All agencies having responsibilities for ascertaining traffic flow requirements, planning, approving, funding, construction and/or maintaining these public facilities for such movements.** This includes traffic planning committees, those involved in the traffic engineering, and legislative bodies in the appropriations of funds. **AGENCIES INVOLVED IN TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT.** For a successful and effective traffic management, specific roles and responsibilities are vested on the following: **1. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (DOTR, FORMERLY DOTC).** - The DOTr through the Land Transportation office (LTO) is responsible for the implementation of the Land Transportation Code of the Philippines (R.A.4136) particularly on the issuance of drivers' licenses, registration of motor vehicles, approval of franchise for public conveyances (through the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and conducting traffic safety seminars. **2. CITY OR MUNICIPAL ENGINEERS' OFFICE.** - In the local level, these are responsible for the planning, construction, and maintenance of traffic facilities within their respective locality. **3. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND HIGHWAYS (DPWH).** - This is the main executive department which is responsible for the planning, construction, and maintenance of traffic facilities particularly those categorized as national highways and other major roads arteries. **4. LEGISLATIVE (CONGRESS/CITY OR MUNICIPAL BOARDS).** - The legislative bodies are not only responsible for the passing or amendment of laws concerning traffic but also, they are involved in the planning and approval of government projects. **5. PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE (PNP).** - The PNP through its Highway Patrol Group **(PNP-HPG)** (formerly the Traffic Management Group (**PNP-TMG)** is responsible primarily for the direct enforcement of traffics laws, rules and regulations. They also perform other function such as conducting of information dissemination campaign, submitting traffic scheme, and other functions as the need arises. **6. ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS** - Schools, both public and private, are responsible for the basic traffic education by integrating in their respective programs and curriculum subjects or topics on traffic safety. **7. COURTS.** - The courts are responsible for the adjudication of traffic-related cases filed before them. **8. PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICES**. - The government through the Philippine Information Agency **(PIA)** provides the necessary updated information to the public by creating traffic safety campaigns and other activities relating to traffic. **9. CITIZENS SUPPORT GROUPS.** - The private institutions or organizations also help in the prevention of traffic congestion by assisting government offices in various activities particularly during special occasions and holidays where traffic problem is likely to happen. **10. MEDIA.** - Government and privately-owned publications, and radio and television broadcasting companies provide necessary and updated traffic-related information to the public through their respective programs. **A SUCCESSFUL TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT** - is not the sole responsibility of the government but rather a concerted effort between the government and the private organizations. **THE FIVE (5) PILLARS OF TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT** These are the main areas of traffic management which are also known as the **"ES" OF TRAFFIC**. For a clearer understanding of the various areas of traffic management, the following pillars are considered. **1. TRAFFIC ENGINEERING** -- it is the science of measuring traffic and travel, the study of the basic laws relative to the traffic law and generation; the application of this knowledge to the professional practice of planning, deciding, and operating traffic system to achieve safe and efficient transportation of persons and goods. **TRAFFIC ENGINEERING -**usually perform the following task; (fact finding, surveys and recommendations traffic rules and regulation) (supervisions and maintenance to the application of traffic control devices and planning of traffic regulations). **2. TRAFFIC EDUCATION** -- it refers to any act or process imparting or acquiring general knowledge on traffic or matters relating to the use of traffic way or road ways. Traffic safety education is the primary concern of the traffic education in the area of accident reduction and prevention. **3. TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT** -- this field deals mostly on the implementation and enforcement of traffic laws and rules and regulations. **Like for example,** th**e (LTO**) is one the traffic enforcement that is responsible in vehicle registration and inspections, and drivers licensing, and also the PNP and other agencies that is vested in traffic rules and regulations. **4. TRAFFIC ECOLOGY OR TRAFFIC ENVIRONMENT** -- this pillar is very recent which includes the study disastrous population explosion, changes in urban environment due to the scale and density of new urban concentration and new activities carried out, air population, water pollution and crowding, especially transport congestion which result therein. Some examples of the environmental effects of the urbanization of transportation are; noise, vibration, air pollution, dirt, relocation of houses and establishment and etc. **5. TRAFFIC ECONOMY** - this is the most recent of the pillars of traffic which deals with the benefits and adverse effects of traffic which with the benefits and adverse effects of traffic to our economy. Primarily, **TRAFFIC OPERATION** - is designed to expedite the movement of traffic. However, with the prevailing traffic congestion during rush hour in any given locality, traffic adversely affects the economic status of the commuting public. **One aspect affecting our economy is the unending increase of oil prices in the world market.** Somehow, programs must be instituted in order to minimize the ill effects of rising prices of basic commodities. Delay resulting from traffic congestion affects not only the time of travel but the productivity of an individual as well (Delizo, 2014). **MIDTERM: TRAFFIC LAW ENFORCEMENT, FUNDAMENTALS OF TRAFFIC CONTROL** **TRAFFIC LAW ENFORCEMENT** **TRAFFIC LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTION -** is part of enforcement action involving the arrest, issuance of Temporary Operator's Permit (TOP) or Inspection Report Summons, or warning of any person who is believed to have violated a law, ordinance, or regulation pertaining to the use of traffic roads. It is also seeking to; prevent inconvenience and injury to persons and damage to property; prevent continued violation; discourage future violation. **RATIONALE** -- Traffic enforcement action may prevent such violation from endangering persons, property, or inconveniencing other users of traffic users traffic roads, prevent continued violation, or discourage future repetition. **THREE IMPORTANT GOALS OF ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES** For more specific actions, enforcement activities aim: **1. TO INCREASE SAFETY LEVEL --** enforcement effort should be directed towards the reduction of accidents or minimizing their effects. **2. TO INCREASE TRAFFIC EFFICIENCY** -- when traffic violators are reduced particularly those related to traffic obstruction through an effective enforcement, there will be free-flow of traffic. For example; road clearing operations. **3. TO INSURE HARMONIOUS OF TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT SYSTEM** -- when there is an increase safety level and increase traffic efficiency, traveling is more comfortable and luxurious and it may reduce chaotic situations in the traffic way. **FIVE (5) ESSENTIAL STEPS IN THE ENFORCEMENT PROCESS** Enforcement of traffic laws includes the following process: **1. DETECTION (OF VIOLATION)** -- a whole police responsibility that entails looking for defects in the behavior of motorist, pedestrian, vehicle, equipment and roadway condition. **Requires knowledge of law on the part of the police.** **2. APPREHENSION** -- it is also a whole police function which involves the actual taking of enforcement actions. **3. PROSECUTION** -- this area is handled by the prosecution and partly the court where the police also provide corresponding influences through preparation and introduction of evidence or close contact with the prosecuting officer. **4. ADJUDICATION** ¬-- while this is obviously a court and prosecutions' function, the police provide influence on this step by acting as witness to the prosecution or supplying additional evidence. **This step determines the guilt of innocence of the accused.** **5. PENALIZATION** -- the court after due process imposes the penalty upon the accused of found guilty. The penalty greatly influenced by previous records of conviction as provided by police. **PENALTY -** involved is either fine or imprisonment or both fine and imprisonment or may result to suspension or revocation of the driver's license of the accused. **KINDS OF ENFORCEMENT ACTION** When traffic enforcers detected violations of traffic laws, an enforcement action may be taken against the individual which is either arrest, citation, or warning alone. **1. TRAFFIC ARREST** -- it is an enforcement action which consists of taking a person into custody for the purpose of holding or detaining him to answer a charge pertaining to traffics rules and regulations before a court. **WHEN A TRAFFIC VIOLATOR CAN BE ARRESTED?** **A. OFFENSE COMMITTED IS SERIOUS**. Like; reckless driving which result to a grave offense. **B. DETENTION IS NECESSARY TO AVOID CONTINUED VIOLATION**. For instance, a drunk driver, it is necessary to be detained in order to avoid other violations. **C. THERE IS REASONABLE DOUBT THAT THE VIOLATOR WILL NOT APPEAR IN COURT.** **ARREST IN TRAFFIC** - is made right after the commission of the traffic violation. **TRAFFIC ENFORCERS** - should know the following rules to be observed in arresting a person without warrant of arrest as stipulated by **PARAGRAPHS A-C, SEC. 6, RULE 113, RULES OF COURT;** - When in the presence of the arresting officer, the person to be arrested has **committed**, is actually **committing**, or is **about to commit** an offense. - When an offense has in fact been **committed**, and the arresting officer has **personal reasons to believe that the person to be arrested has committed it.** **2. TRAFFIC CITATION** - this is means of having violators appear in court without physical arrest. **THE ISSUANCE OF CITATION TICKET -** is the most common enforcement action by the police. This is an efficient system since majority of violators with minor offenses are punished immediately by paying fines at an administrative body without having to appear in court. **TRAFFIC OFFICERS -** should confiscate the violators and issue **Traffic Citation Ticket (TCT),** **Temporary Operator's Permit (TOP),** or **Traffic Violator's Receipt (TVR).** **AS AN APPREHENDING OFFICER DULY DESIGNATED BY THE LTO OR OTHER AGENCIES, YOU SHOULD OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING WHEN GIVING CITATION TICKET TO A TRAFFIC VIOLATOR:** **1. You may confiscate the driver's license** or certificate of registration of the vehicle for any violation of the **R.A. 4136** and its rules and regulations, City and Municipal Ordinances. **2. Fill out the blank spaces of TOP/or TCT forms** in order to provide a detailed report of apprehension for the information, guidance and reference of all concerned. **3. Advice the violators to report within 72 hours**, but not less than 24 hours to give allowance for proper transmittal from receipt thereof to appropriate offices. **USES OF (TCT), (TOP), (TVR) -- THESE ARE OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS DESIGNED FOR VARIOUS PURPOSES, NAMELY:** A**. It serves as a receipt** **for the confiscation of vehicle** or the driver's license or the or/cr of the vehicle. B. **It serves as temporary permit to operate motor vehicles** for 72 hours without extension from the time of confiscation or apprehension **(In Case of TVR In Manila, 7 Days).** C. **It is an official form of judicial or administrative citation to** facilitate action on the case for which it is issued. D. **It is record** **for disposing a case** cited therein either administrative or judiciary E. **It is also a receipt for release** **of the confiscated items** after adjudication and termination of the case. **3. TRAFFIC WARNING** -- is an enforcement action which does not contemplate possible assessment of penalty by the court or otherwise as a result of warning alone. **KINDS OF TRAFFIC WARNING:** **A. VISUAL WARNING** -- this is usually used when you have observed a minor violation but are more importantly occupied at a moment. Indicate by gesture of the hand and /or of the head. **B. VERBAL WARNING --** this is form of safety education. Tell the driver/violator that he violated a law and explain the hazards of such violators. **C. WRITTEN WARNING** -- this is a combination of verbal warning and citations. It gives the spirit of verbal warning and the form of citation. This is seldom used nowadays. **OFFICER-VIOLATOR RELATIONSHIP** Always aim to establish a pleasant relationship with offending motorists or pedestrians. This may be accomplished by: **1. OFFICER'S PHYSICAL APPEARANCE.** **2. OBSERVANCE OF THE FOLLOWING RULES WHEN TALKING TO THE VIOLATORS:** a. Get your emotion under control b. Advice the violator the nature of the alleged violation in manner that he can fully understand. c. Allow the violator to explain his side d. Be courteous and business-like, i.e., you may introduce yourself or use only "good morning" addressing them **"sir"** and **"ma'am".** e. Request compliance -- **like for example**, using **"May I",** **"Please", "Kindly".** f. Avoid telling the driver what to do. If you want him to do something whenever possible, explain why you want him to do it. **3. BEING ALERT AT ALL TIMES** **4. IN REQUESTING THE DRIVER'S LICENSE OR OR/CR, OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING:** a. Do not put your head or arms in the car windows. b. While waiting for the license, ask the driver, **"what is your name, Sir?"** c. Never accept anything other than the papers requested. d. Ask the papers being requested be removed from the billfold or other container e. Have the driver hand the requested papers to you outside the window. f. Establish the identity of the driver and check the entries of the both the license and the registration papers for any possible fraud, or false identities or falsifications. g. Do not return the driver's license and vehicle registration certificate until you are about to terminate the interview. **5. IN TERMINATING YOUR CONTACT WITH THE VIOLATOR:** a. Explain to the driver what action he must take. b. Tell him when and where he must appear. c. Don't discus probable bail penalties with the violator. d. Avoid any naughty suggestion that he should engage in the services of counsel or how he should plead. e. When you are certain the driver understands what he should do, close the interview by; thanking the driver for his cooperation; and explaining how he may avoid further difficulty. f. Help the driver get safely through the traffic g. When the violator leaves, don't follow him immediately. He feels that you are just waiting to nab him again (Delizo, 2014). **GENERALLY -** it refers to procedures, devices, and communication systems that helped vehicles and vessels safely share the same roads, rails, waterways, or air space. **TRAFFIC CONTROL** - establishes a set of rules and instructions that drivers rely on to avoid collisions and other hazards. **SAFE TRAVEL FOR PEDESTRIANS** - is an additional goal in highway traffic control. **TRAFFIC SIGNS -** Refers to any device mounted on portable support whereby a message is conveyed by means of words or symbols officially installed for the purpose of regulating, warning, or guiding traffic. **TRAFFIC SIGNS -** are installed to serve the following functions: 1. To control traffic, 2. To safeguard the flow of traffic, 3. To expedite traffic, and 4. To guide traffic and motorist. **STANDARDIZATION OF TRAFFIC SIGNS** - shall conform to the standards set forth in the creation and display of standard road signs and markers as prescribed by the DPWH as to shape, color, dimension, shape, size, height, letterings or symbols. **TRAFFIC SIGNS** - shall be installed only under public authority or by the official having jurisdiction for that purpose, and it shall not bear any commercial advertisement. **A thorough knowledge of traffic signs, signals, road and pavement markings is necessary to all drivers.** **EVERY MOTORIST-** must be able to recognize and obey them without hesitation even with absence of traffic police officer. **UNIFORMITY OF DESIGN** Uniformity in the design of sign facilities identification by the road users Standardization of shape, color and message is important to that various classis of signs can easily be recognized. The following are standard shape adopted by the International Standards: **A. The OCTAGON** is reserved exclusively for the STOP SIGN. **B. The EQUILATERAL TRIANGLE -** with one point vertically downward is reserved for the GIVE WAY sign or YIELD sign. **C. The CIRCLE -** is used for regulatory signs **D. The CIRCLE SYMBOL -** may sometimes be mounted on a regular base either for easy recognition or for additional information. **E.** The **EQUILATERAL TRIANGLE** - with one point vertically upward is used for warning signs. **F. THE RECTANGLE-** usually with long axis horizontal is used for directional signs, signs for road works and special purposes and supplementary plates to warning signs. **G. THE RECTANGLE**- usually with long axis vertical is used for facility information signs, and destination of point of interest. **THE STANDARD COLORS FOR SIGNS ARE AS FOLLOWS:** **A. RED** - is used as background for STOP signs, as border color on GIVE WAY sign, warning signs and prohibited signs in the regulatory series. **B. BLACK** - is used background color for signs having a white, yellow, yellow-orange background, and as background, and as back as background color for hazard markers. **C. YELLOW -** is used as background color for warning signs, advisory speed sign and for most road work signs whose legends relate to personnel working. **D. GREEN** - is used as background color for most direction signs and legends for parking signs. **E. BLUE -** is used as facility information signs and to indicate point of interest. **HISTORICAL BACKGROUND** With increased international travel after World War II, discussions took place in the United Nations (UN) on the introduction of international traffic signs. However, it was not until **1965** that United Kingdom (UK) signs were changed to conform to the European system. **In 1995**, it was estimated that there were **2,500,000 sings and signals, 850,000 road markings, and 700,000 road studs on the roads in England alone**. On the other hand, the United States (US) adopted the signs in 1970s and developed a set of national standards for signs color, shape, and usage. **On June 6, 1973,** the Philippines through **P.D. 207** declared as part of the laws of the Philippines the UN Vienna Convention on road traffic, signs, markings and signals. The participating countries to this Convention have agreed to accept the system of traffic, road signs, signals and symbols and road markings described in said convention and to adopt the same to facilitate international road traffic and to increase road safety. **INTERNATIONAL TRAFFIC SIGNS** As explained in the Vienna convention, the system of signs and signals which it has prescribed is based on the use of shapes and colors, characteristics of each class of sign, and whenever possible on the use of graphic symbols rather than inscriptions with few exceptions one which is the STOP sign of the United States. It has been adopted very likely because it is understood practically by every motorist regardless of nationalities. **THE BASIC SIGN SHAPES ARE THE FOLLOWING:** **1. ROUND AND RED SIGNS -** Regulates the movement of turning and passing traffic regulation. These indicate you cannot do something; for ex- ample, no left turn, no right turn, or no U-turn. These signs indicate the maximum or minimum safe speed that is allowed. **2. ROUND AND YELLOW SIGN -** a warning that you are approaching a rail road crossing. **3. EQUILATERAL TRIANGLE RED SIGN -** a sign at the intersection directing drivers to yield the right-of-way to vehicles in the road being crossed. **4. EIGHT-SIDED (OCTAGON) RED AND WHITE STOP SIGN -** The most popular and understood sign by all tongues and colors. It means motorist must come to full stop and proceed only when it is safe. **5. TRIANGULAR RED AND BLACK SIGNS -** It a is warning to alert drivers to take the necessary precautions of the dangerous condition ahead such as approaching signal lights ahead, men working, curve hills and slippery roads. **CLASSIFICATION OF TRAFFIC SIGNS** **According to the book of Delizo (2014), International traffic signs are classified into three. These are:** 1.) Danger Warning Signs, 2.) Regulatory Signs, and 3.) Informative Signs**.** **\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_** **1. DANGER WARNING SIGNS -** these signs are also known as "**CAUTION SIGNS".** These signs have an equilateral triangular shape with one side horizontal and having red boarders. **These signs are intended to:** a. Warn motorist of approaching hazardous roads condition; b. Seek caution for the approaching road hazards; and c. Call the reduction of speed. **2. REGULATORY SIGNS -** these are signs which impose legal restriction applicable at particular location usually enforceable in the absence of such signs. **These are intended to:** a. Inform road users of certain laws and regulations; and b. Special obligations, instructions, or prohibitions which they must comply with and violations of which constitute misdemeanor. Regulatory signs are usually round shape with exceptions of **"stop signs** and **"yield signs".** **THESE SIGNS ARE FURTHER CLASSIFIED IN TO TWO:** **a.) Prohibitive and restrictive and priority signs.** **CLASSIFICATION OF REGULATORY SIGNS** **1. PRIORITY SIGNS** **A. STOP** -- the STOP sign is used to ensure the caution before entering an intersection and shall be used where a complete stop is required by law for safety. It is intended to ensure that drivers have sufficient time in which to assess the degree of hazard prevailing before entering an intersection. **B. GIVE WAY** -- The Give Way sign is used at locations where safe and efficient traffic control requires the give-way-to-the-right rule to be modified or there is a need to resolve uncertainty as to which traffic stream is required to give way. **2. PROHIBITIVE OR RESTRICTIVE SIGNS -** This are signs is used to indicate or reinforced traffic laws, regulations or requirements which apply either at all times or at specified times or places upon street or highway, the disregard of which may constitute a violation. **THE FOLLOWING ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF PROHIBITIVE SIGNS:** - No Entry Sign - Turning Prohibition - No Parking - Pedestrian Prohibition Signs - Prohibition of Overtaking **3. MANDATORY SIGNS** Direction which vehicles are obliged to follow. The following are examples of mandatory signs: - Directional Arrows - Compulsory Minimum Speed **3. INFORMATIVE SIGNS -**This sign are also known as **"GUIDE SIGNS",** or **"DIRECTION SIGNS".** **THE RECTANGULAR SHAPE WHITE-COLORED ON BLUE BACKGROUND** - is usually used for informative signs. **THE GREEN BACKGROUND** - is usually used for route markers and destination signs. **These informative signs are intended to:** a. Guide motorist along established routes; b. Inform the motorist of the proper road; and c. Help motorist along the way in the simplest and direct method. **PAVEMENT MARKINGS** The Land Transportation Office (LTO) termed all markings on the roadway as **"PAVEMENTS MARKINGS".** These pertains all lines, patterns, words, colors, or other gadgets except signs set into the surface or applied upon or attached to the pavement or curbing or to objects within or adjacent to the roadway, officially placed for the purpose of regulating, warning or guiding traffic. For DPWH, pavement markings are also called **"ROAD MARKERS**" which referring to any traffic control device marked on the surface of the carriageway used to regulate traffic or to warn or guide road users. **TYPES OF PAVEMENT MARKINGS** **1. CURB MARKINGS FOR RESTRICTION** - these are markings placed on the curbs of edges of the traffic for restriction or for parking regulation purposes. **2. OBJECT MARKINGS** -- these are makings place on objects on the road or beside the road like humps, rocks, or similar hazardous object on the side of the road. **3. REFLECTORIZED MARKINGS** -- these are markings or gadgets designed to reflect and become luminous when it hit by vehicles' headlight. These are placed or installed in the middle of the roadway to supplement separation lines on or object at the side of the roadway which are too near or within the road pavement itself. **1. WHITE LANE LINES** - White lane lines are white line separating lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. Crossing of solid white line requires special care and is discourage. - A solid broken white lane means passing to the left or right is allowed provided that the way is clear. **2. YELLOW LANE LINES** - Yellow lane lines are dividing lines separating traffic traveling opposite directions - solid yellow line at the left lane means, it is not safe to pass - A broken yellow line means passing is allowed if the way ahead and rear is clear. - Solid double yellow line at the left lane mean it is unsafe to pass. Never cross it to pass another vehicle. NOTE: The line maybe crossed only to enter or leave a driveway or private road or to make a permitted **"U"** turn. **SPECIFIC MEANING OF PAVEMENT MARKINGS** **A. SINGLE WHITE LINE DOTTED LINE --** these pavements indicate the following: - On two lane road, it separates traffic moving in opposite directions. - On a one-way street, separates traffic moving in one direction. - Overtaking is possible when other lane is clear of oncoming possible.  **B. SINGLE WHITE CONTINUOUS LINE IN A TWO-LANE TRAFFIC WAY** -- this-indicate the following: - Separates traffic moving on opposite direction - Could be found on road sections that are dangerous - Passing and overtaking can be made but only under circumstances when there is no incoming traffic. **C. DOUBLE YELLOW LINE OR DOUBLE WHITE LINE** -- a double yellow or white line with dotted line in between means: - Absolutely no overtaking - Overtaking is extremely dangerous - Stay in your lane until you pass the end of the solid lines.  **D. SINGLE YELLOW/WHITE LINE** - A yellow or white line with dotted white lines means: - That you cannot overtake if the solid line is on your side. - If you overtake, return to your lane before the solid line. **NOTE:** Car 1 should not overtake car 2 because the solid line is on its lane. Car 3 on the other side can overtake car 4 because the dotted line is on its side. **E. YELLOW CONTINUOUS LINE ON ROAD PROVIDED WITH A PASSING LANE** - This line indicates the following: - These are common on mountain roads - Slow moving vehicles such as buses and - Heavy trucks should always use the outer lane (lane 3) - Inner lane (lane 2) is for vehicles to pass without having to use to other lane (lane 1) for vehicles coming from the opposite direction. - Vehicles coming from the opposite directions (lane 1) should not use the inner lane (lane 2) at the other side for overtaking.  **F. CROSSWALK OR PEDESTRIAN LANE -** This pavement marking indicates the following: - **For pedestrian to cross.** - **Stop for pedestrians on an intersection with no traffic light.** - **Do not stop on pedestrian lane specially to load or unload passengers.** - **Pedestrians should always cross a street on a crosswalk.** **G. DIRECTIONAL ARROWS** -- these pavement markings indicate the following traffic regulations: - Directions of permitted traffic movement. - When approaching intersections where pavement arrows are used, you should enter the lane where the arrow points in the direction you want to go. - If you get in the wrong lane, you should keep going in the directions indicated by the arrow until it is safe to turn off and get back on the street or highway which will carry you to your destination. - Some have double headed arrows which means the lane is for traffic going in two directions indicated.  **H. STOP LINES** - these are painted across pavement lanes at traffic signs or signals. Where the lines are present, you should stop behind the stop line. **I. THE BARREL LINES** -- a new concept in reducing the seriousness of accidents. The barrels are engineered to act as impact cushion. Usually installed in front of a solid obstacle or traffic island at an area of high accident frequency (Delizo, 2014).  **NOTE:** Never disregard or ignore traffic sign. You may be able to escape danger or the apprehension, once, twice, or even thrice and be convinced that the signs are useless. But perhaps, the next time around, you would not be as lucky on your CRASH. Be a smart driver. Learn to obey the sign AT ALL TIMES to stay away from accidents. You will not be saving your life but the lives of others. **AS A DRIVER ON THE ROAD** - we should also know the meaning of the road signs, pavement marking and road markings and other regulatory devices. Observe all speed limits and be ready always to adjust your speed to conditions. Extend every courtesy to other motorists and pedestrians at all times when driving. **TRAFFIC ISLAND** - these are areas within the roadway constructed in a manner to establish physical channels through which vehicular traffic is guided. **A. FUNCTION OF TRAFFIC ISLAND** -- these traffic islands as part of traffic control devices are designed to: - Segregate pedestrians and vehicles; and - Control streams of traffic in order to minimize conflict, expedite traffic flow or increase safety. **B. CLASSIFICATION OF TRAFFIC ISLANDS** -- traffic islands are classified according to the design, place of installation, and purpose of construction. **1. PEDESTRIAN ISLAND (PEDESTRIAN BARRIER)** -- these are constructed between the pedestrian sidewalk and the road pavement to prevent from using the roadway in passing and to prevent motor vehicles from using the sidewalk for parking and passing purposes. **2. CHANNELIZING ISLAND** - these are constructed to channelize or direct the flow of traffic.  **TRAFFIC LIGHTS -** These refers to any power operated traffic control device by which traffic is warned or directed to take some specific actions. Traffic lights signals are used to control traffic at junctions and also to stop traffic to provide safe crossing points for pedestrians and cyclists. The color of traffic lights is chronologically arranged to give motorist better view of signal lights. From the top, the series of color is Red, Yellow, and Green. If there is a left or right arrow, the color alternates from green, yellow to red and is usually installed at the left side of the green, yellow and red lights. **Traffic Lights Flashing red Flashing yellow Flashing green**  **SPECIFIC MEANING** **1. RED SIGNAL** - STOP at the designated line - Unless a sign indicates otherwise, a right may be made on a red signal or from a one-way street to a one-way street provided the vehicle is first brought to stop, and always subject to the right of way of pedestrians and other traffic. - Expect pedestrians to cross at the pedestrian lane. **2. FLASHING RED SIGNAL** - A flashing red signal means bring your vehicle to stop and proceed only when it is safe **3. YELLOW SIGNAL/AMBER** - A flashing yellow signal means proceed with caution. - This is the same as a YIELD SIGN - You have the right of way over a flashing RED LIGHT **4. GREEN SIGNAL** - Go - A green signal means you proceed, provided you yield the pedestrian and other traffic lawfully using intersection. - When making a turn on a green signal, remember that the pedestrian crossing on the green signal have the right of way. Be sure that you do not block the traffic. **5. GREEN ARROW WITH OR WITHOUT A RED SIGNAL** - When a green arrow is shown with or without a red signal, you may enter the intersection to move only in the direction shown by the arrow. **CLASSIFICATION OF TRAFFIC LIGHTS** **1. TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS** -- these are signals lights designed primarily to control and regulate traffic flows. **2. SPECIAL PEDESTRIAN SIGNALS** -- these signals lights provide regulation for pedestrians like the "WALK" and "DO NOT WALK" signal lights. **3. TRAIN APPROACH AND GATES SIGNALS** -- these are usually installed on road-rail intersections designed to inform motorists of any approaching train on the intersection. **4. OTHER SPECIAL TRAFFIC SIGNALS** -- these are installed on traffic ways where special regulations are emphasized like "YIELD TO VEHICLES COMING FROM THE LEFT", and other similar regulations. **TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYSTEMS** -- traffic signal lights use different signaling systems which vary according to the needs of the traffic way. **THE FOLLOWING ARE THE TYPES OF SIGNALING SYSTEM:** **1. THE FIXED-TIME SYSTEM** -- a traffic control signal by which traffic is alternately commanded to stop and permitted to proceed in accordance with predetermined time schedule. This is the most widely used system of traffic signaling. The cycle lengths of the signal changes are determined by systematic studies of traffic flow and pedestrian needs. Such cycle lengths can be set to vary during the day to accommodate changing traffic patterns. **2. PROGRESSIVE SYSTEM** -- these are used on major arteries of a number of cities. Signals at successive intersections along the artery are timed to change from red to green at staggered intervals, permitting a vehicle that maintains a constant speed to proceed without interruption under normal circumstances. **3. COMPUTERIZED CONTROL OF SIGNAL NETWORKS** -- signal changes are ordered by the demands of traffic and are directed by computers that operate on the basis of traffic information relayed from vehicle sensors on the sensors on the streets. In this system, traffic detectors are placed at several locations-generally in the pavement. A computer continuously scans the traffic information from each detector. The computer then selects the best timing for each signal to reduce traffic congestion and minimize delays. In addition, computerized traffic lights can sense and respond to traffic because of a wire loop embedded in the road. Electric current, run through the loop, creates a magnetic field. When a car interferes with this field, a signal is sent to a roadside traffic computer. The computer monitors traffic flow, coordinating a light change as soon as it is safe (Delizo, 2020).