CDI104

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION WITH DRIVING

I: MANPOWER, ANIMAL POWER AND WIND POWER

o TRANSPORTATION- is the movement or conveying of persons and goods from one location to
another.
o NOMADIC- from the Greek word meaning "to pasture" was originally used to refer to
pastoralists-a group that in an established pattern to find pasture lands for their domestic
livestock.
 foraging populations-looking for food
 pastoral nomads- move with their families and belongings
 Gypsies, Tinkers, and itinerants in urban and complex societies

VARIOUS ANCIENT MODES OF TRANSPORTATION

1. MANPOWER

a. Carrying Pole- China and Far East; the carrying pole is balanced on one shoulder; the ends of the pole are supported
by two men with goods suspended from pole in between.

b. Back Load and Tumpline- goods are carried on the back.

c. Sledge on rollers- heavy burdens are placed on sledge which rested on a series of rollers

d. Sledge on runners- simple sledge man-drawn used at the end of Stone Age in Northern Europe as evidenced by
fragments of wooden runners which survived.

e. Travois-pole arrangement serves as a platform on which burdens are placed.

2. ANIMAL POWER

a. Ox- first domesticated animal at Mesopotamia and were used as draft animals to draw war chariots.

b. Reindeer- first domesticated in Siberia; ridden with saddles

c. Dog- first animal domesticated is too slight to carry heavy loads.

d. Donkey-first domesticated in the Middle East; chief beast of burden among the farmers of the near East.

e. Llama- only new world animal capable of domestication for use in transport; pack animal in Incas

f. Elephant- used African Elephant in their war against Rome; n Burma and Thailand, these huge animals are widely used
in the lumber industry. g. Horse-In Europe, horses were used to draw wheeled vehicles and for riding sometime until the
introduction of mechanized vehicles.

h. Camel

*2 humped Bactrian camel of Central Asia- used to draw carts

*1 humped Dromedary Camel of Arabia- less endurance but fleeter and special fast paced riding camel.

i. Yak- long haired type of cattle that lives at Tibetan Plateau and used as pack animal at heights where horses and
ordinary animal could not live/survive.
 3. 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 to invention of air lifted transportation vessels.

a. Ancient Kite- Based on Korean Tradition, kite was first used when a Korean General employed one in a Bridge
Building. By means of a kite, a Cord was conveyed across the river where heavier ropes were fastened and finally the
bridge cable.

b. Da Vinci's Ornithopter- Leonardo Da Vinci studied the Flight of Birds and sketched a number of Ornithopter
(aka Orthopter) which derives its principal support and propelling from flapping wings like those of birds.

c. Montgolfier Balloon- France Joseph Michel and Jacques Entiene released several balloons when they
proposed to use two condemned prisoners for the first ascent with passengers (condemned prisoners). PILATRE DE
ROZIER protested and in 1783, he and Arlanoes became the first men to make a free balloon ascent.

d. Siemens' Rocket Plane- Ernst Werner Von Siemens designed a rocket plane which was to be propelled by
gunpowder. Siemens' rocket was never carried beyond design stage.

e. Lilienthal Glider - Otto Liliental, a German Inventor who also made a study of birds and with ornithopters. His
chief work was with gliders.

f. Santos Dumont's Airship Alberto Santos Dumont- a Brazilian who experimented with the steam-powered
balloon in Paris. In 1898 completed the construction of his first airship,

g. Wright Brothers' Flying Machine Orville and Wilbur Wright studying the problems of heavier than air flight.
They built biplane kite before they flew successfully their first man- carrying powered machine.

h. Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis following the Wright brothers' airplane, development of aviation was rapid. The
first airmail was delivered in 1911. An achievement which captured popular imagination was the first solo flight from
New York to Paris made by Capt. Charles Lindbergh in May 1927 in a plane specially built for the flight, the Spint of St.
Louis.

II: ROADS AND VEHICLES HISTORY

WHEEL was invented probably in western Asia. Such invention was a milestone and a great step forward in
Transportation.
 Crude Carts and Wagons began to appear in Tigris-Euphrates Valley about 3500 BC.

 The wheel enables the man to transport burdens beyond his power or animals to carry or drag.

The following were some of the earliest types of wheeled carts:

o Solid wheels on fixed axle- this ancient cart represent an early step in the evolution of wheeled vehicles. Its solid
wheels, which were made of a single wood rotated on single axle.
o Sumerian Chariot with flank wheels- 2400 BC, had solid wheels built up of three pieces and was more durable
than the one-piece wheel.
o Greek Quadrica with spoked wheels- drawn by four horses was a light and elegant vehicle for gentlemen about
50 BC. It had spoked wheels and axles of irons and bronze, handles for aid in mounting, and seat formed by a
board placed across the handles.
o Roman Carpentum- à closed two-wheeled cart was the favored vehicle of Roman women.
o Italian Cocchio, 1285- a travelling wagon in which the passengers were protected by a covering leather or cloth
fixed over a wooden framework.
WHEELED VEHICLES Could not use the narrow paths and trails used by pack animals, and early roads were soon
built.
THE ROMANS were the major read builders. The road reached a total of about 50 000 miles (80,000 kms), with
feeder roads branching out from the main highways.
JOHN L. MACADAM- did not abandon the theory of feeder road building and perfected the macadamized road
in England about 1815.
AFTER THE FALL OF THE ROMANS 5th century, land haulage generally declined because highways suffered from
inadequate maintenance.
SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENT OF ROAD VEHICLE began with the adaptation of Coach Spring about 1650.
MID 18th CENTURY- English Roads were so bad that the coaches could average only about 4mph (6.4 km/h) and
mail was usually carried by boys on horses.
JOHN PALMER introduced the first fast mail coach THE INVENTION OF BICYCLE -19th century served as a nursery
of automobile builders.
o HOBBY HORSE/DAN HORSE-ancestor of modern bicycle. The wheels were made of wood with tires of
iron and the riders pushed themselves along with their feet on the ground.
o KARL VON DRAIS-introduced steerable wheel creating "draisienne" or "Dandy Horse".
o KIRK PATRICK MACMILLAN- first machine with pedals which were attached to and drove the rear wheel
by means of cranks,
PNEUMATIC TIRE- (inflated by air)- by SCOT JOHN BOY DUNLOP appeared in late 19 century (about 1888).
MOTOR VEHICLE first mode of transportation to challenge the railroads.
o Frenchman Etienne Lenoir introduced the motorized carriages by his invention in the 1860s and 70s of the
Internal Combustion Engine.
o Nicolaus Otto and Gottlieb Daimler pioneered the manufacture of gas engines and later Daimler became a
successful automobile manufacturer.
o Rudolf Diesel- developed an internal combustion engine which is similar with the gasoline engine but
requires no electrical ignition system or carburetor and uses other form of liquid fuel, the diesel fuel,
o AUTOMOBILE found its greatest popularity in the US, where the first horseless carriage appeared in 1990s.
o HENRY FORD- In 1908, he introduced the MODEL T which was proven so popular that by 1914, Ford had
adopted MASS PRODUCTION methods to meet the demand.
o FELIX WANKEL-In 1956, he developed an advanced-type of engine named after him, that operates very
differently from gas and diesel engines. It starts by moving the crankshaft.
From the Ford Era, the demand of vehicles became great for the transportation of goods, products,
communications and people.
Presently, the introduction of the Light Rail transit (LRT), Metro Rail Transit (MRT), flyovers, pedestrian and
vehicle culverts contributed to the movement of traffic users.
 UNIT II: TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT

1: FUNDAMENTALS OF TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT

MANAGEMENT It refers to the skillful use of means to accomplish a purpose. + OPERATION-Pertains to a course or series
of acts to affect a certain purpose, manner of action, or a vital or natural process of activity.

ROADWAY- Refers to that part of the traffic way over which motor vehicle pass.

SHOULDER- It refers to either side of the roadway, especially along highways.

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. the Italian word "trafficare"-to carry on trade.) (from

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 the purposes of vehicular traffic as a matter of right or custom.

***WHY TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT IS NECESSARY?

It is designed to make the traffic way safer for travelers, expedite the movement of traffic and to
provide convenience to the traffic facilities users.

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT is an exclusive function such as planning, organizing, and directing, supervising,
coordinating, operating, recording, and budgeting traffic affairs.
 TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT MEASURES- these measures are aimed at improving vehicular flow and
increasing the efficiency of existing road space, thereby avoiding the need for major road expansion.
o Traffic Control Utilizing Signal Coordination, pavement markings, delineators, traffic signs and lighting to promote
safe and smooth flow of traffic.
o Flow regulations are used to increase the capacity of roads particularly during the peak periods without road
expansion.
o Minor improvements of the road system by means of channelization, road widening, and intersection design are
carried out whenever traffic management schemes fail to increase road efficiency.
o Conduct continuing research on the improvement of transport and traffic systems and facilitate achieving the
required standards of performance for the entire road network.
o Develop and administer for the entire area of transport operation in an integrated program that shall cover the
operation, design, coordination, and administration of all public and private transport.
o Undertake a continuing information program of transport problems and identification of transport problems and
identification of traffic congestion areas.
o Establish coordinative linkages with other government agencies and private sector groups relating to transport,
mobility, and traffic management program.

 MAJOR CAUSES OF TRAFFIC CONGESTION

o Physical Inadequacy-characterized by lack of roads, narrow bridges, railroad crossings, lack of traffic facilities,
etc.
o Poor Control Measures- characterized by ineffective mechanical control devices, inefficient traffic officers and
poor implementation of traffic laws, rules, and regulations.
 HOW DO WE SOLVE OUR TRAFFIC PROBLEMS?

TRAFFIC ENGINEERS help to improve our street and highway system through:

• Use of signs, traffic signals, and control devises

• Design and construction of more roads, bridges, flyovers, tunnels, and update infrastructures to lessen congestion.

 Focus on the comprehensive objectives of mobility, safety, energy, efficiency, and the environment through
application of scientific methods based on the principles of system engineering and planning.

EDUCATORS- schools in many cities and towns are teaching young new drivers- sometimes older ones too to
know how to handle a car and to behave on streets and highways.
LAWMAKERS make the basic rules for using roads.
POLICEMEN are the front liners and implementers of traffic rules and regulation,

II. THE PILLARS OF TRAFFIC

1. TRAFFIC ENGINEERING
It is the science of measuring traffic and travel, the study of basic laws relative to the traffic law and generation.
Deals with the planning and geometrical designs of streets, highways, and abutting lands and with operation
thereon.
It is basically concerned with the efficiency of road design.
FUNCTIONS OF TRAFFIC ENGINEERING:
 fact-finding, surveys and recommendations of traffic rules and regulations.
 supervisions and maintenance to the application of traffic control devices
 planning of traffic regulations
TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES
o Any signs, signal marking placed exerted for the purpose of regulating, warning, or guiding traffic.
 TRAFFIC SIGN- This is the oldest traffic control device used to guide the state and orderly movement of traffic
this contains instructions, information about routes, directions designations and point of interest must be
recognizable as such the means to convey the intended message consists of either a legend or symbol or a
combination of both.

o Traffic Control Device are installed to control traffic and contribute indirectly to assurance of traffic safety. They
are means by which the road user is advised as to detailed requirements or conditions affecting road use.
o Traffic Signs should be installed only with the approval of a public authority. Authorized
o Construction Contractors and Public Utility Companies may install temporary warning signs at work sites to
protect workmen, equipment, and the public provided that such conform to the standard.
o
TYPES OF TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES
o TRAFFIC SIGNALS Signal Operated manually, electrically, or mechanically by which traffic is alternately
commanded to stop and permitted to proceed.

o TRAFFIC SIGNS- a device row darts movement e mounted on affixed or portable support whereby official
notice is given in the form of symbol for purpose of regulating traffic, warning and guiding.
 o SYMBOL SIGNS-Upon which words are completely omitted, they have marked ability to compel attention
and to rapidly communicate the planned message.

TRAFFIC SIGNS MAY BE CLASSIFIED IN THE FOLLOWING GROUPS ACCORDING TO THEIR USE.

REGULATORY SIGNS (TYPE R)- regulate the movement of traffic and traffic to comply with their directions constitute and
offense.

SPECIAL MANDATORY SIGNS (TYPE S) -instruct users to meet certain traffic rule requirements or road conditions that
ordinary guide or regulatory signs do not achieved the desired result.

WARNING SIGNS (TYPE W)-war road users of condition on or adjacent to the road which may be unexpected or hazards
to traffic operation.

INFORMATIVE SIGNS (TYPE G) -Inform and advise road users of directions, distances, and destination routes, location of
services for road users and point of interest.

2. TRAFFIC EDUCATION It is the process of giving training and practice in the actual application of traffic safety

knowledge. The following are the agencies and offices responsible for traffic education:

o SCHOOLS (Public and Private)

o Public Information Programs
o Citizen Support Groups

3. TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT This field deals mostly on the implementation and enforcement of traffic laws and rules

and regulations. The following are the various agencies/offices involved in enforcement of traffic laws:

Land Transportation Office (LTD) This office is responsible for the following:

o Vehicle registration
o Vehicle Inspections
o Driver's Licensing
o Public to police on stolen or wanted vehicles

4. TRAFFIC ECOLOGY OR TRAFFIC ENVIRONMENT

This pillar is very recent which includes the study of potentially disastrous population explosion, changes in urban
environment due to the scale and density of new urban concentration and new activities carried out, air pollution, water
pollution and crowding, especially transport congestion which result therein.

The following are the environmental effects;

Noise

Vibration

Air Pollution

Visual Intrusion

Loss of Privacy

Relocation

Distraction during planning and construction

Laws and Statutes concerning Traffic Ecology

o PD 1181- Providing for Prevention, control, abatement of Air Pollution from motor vehicles
o LOI 551- Directing Law Enforcement Agencies to implement the pollution control programs

o RA 8749-Clean Air Act

o 5. TRAFFIC ECONOMY
o This is the most recent of the pillars of traffic which deals 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 hours in a given locality, traffic adversely affects the economic status of
the commuting public
o One aspect affecting our economy is the unending increase of oil prices in the world market. Somehow,
programs must be instituted to minimize the ill effect of rising prices of basic commodities.

III. TRAFFIC SAFETY EDUCATION

Concept:

Traffic Safety Education-It is the process of training road users in avoidance and prevention of traffic-related accidents.

Road Safety It refers to the reduced risk of accident or injury on the roads, achieved through multidisciplinary
approaches involving road engineering and traffic management, education and training of road users, and vehicle
designs.

Traffic Environment and Traffic Economy were added to complete the 5 Pillars of Traffic. ENGINEERING (Traffic
Engineering) Effective construction and maintenance of traffic facilities which does not only expedite the movement of
traffic but also prevents the occurrence of traffic accidents. Successful treatments have included:

 changes in layout at junctions to define pictures more clearly (use of roundabouts, or traffic circles);
 more wide use of road markings to delineate traffic lanes and waiting areas for turning vehicles improvements in
skidding resistance of wet roads more uniform street lighting.
 more highly visible and legible direction, information, and warning signs

EDUCATION (in traffic safety)- When Road users are informed of the traffic laws, rules and regulations, accidents are
likely prevented. This is also an integral part of curriculum. Included are:

 New approach on training and educating young drivers.

 Training in hazard perception
 Changing of attitudes
ENFORCEMENT (of Traffic Rules)- The following are highly recommended in areas of traffic enforcement:

 strengthening and simplifying the application of law

 new technology to aid traffic.
 enhanced publicity
 education of teenagers in schools
 the development of rehabilitation course like seminars for apprehended traffic violators

ECOLOGY/ENVIRONMENT-People should be educated regarding the adverse effect of traffic to our environment that
directly or indirectly affects the population's health.

ECONOMY-People should also learn to develop schemes that do not only lessen expenses but are also accident-free.

A. SOURCES

1. Republic Acts (R.A's)

 R.A 4136-This is the basic law regulating land transportation in the Philippines. It has repealed Act No. 3992 (the
Revised Motor Vehicle Law).
 R.A 6539- The act which is known as the "Anti-Car napping Act of 1972
 R. A 5448- An at imposing tax on privately-owned passenger automobiles, motorcycles, and scooters,
 Republic Act 10586 or the "Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013" R.A. 8749- Philippine Clean Air Act of
1999
 R.A 8750- Seat belts Use Act of 1999
 R.A. 7924- Act Creating Metropolitan Manila Development Authority

Words and Phrases used in RA 4136

(a) "Motor Vehicle" shall mean any vehicle propelled by any power other than muscular power using the public
highways, but excepting road rollers, trolley cars, street-sweepers, sprinklers, lawn mowers, bulldozers, graders, fork lifts,
amphibian trucks, and cranes if not used on public highways, vehicles which run only on rails or tracks, and tractors,
trailers and traction engines of all kinds used exclusively for agricultural purposes.

Trailers having any number of wheels, when propelled or intended to be propelled by attachment to a motor vehicle,
shall be classified as separate motor vehicles with no power rating.

(b) "Passenger automobiles" The passage defines various pneumatic-tire vehicle types, including touring cars, sports
cars, jeeps, and more, as automobiles. It also categorizes motor vehicles with rebuilt bodies using typical automobile
chassis as automobiles, provided they carry up to nine passengers and aren't primarily for freight. The distinction
between "passenger truck" and "passenger automobile" is based on common usage, with more than nine passengers
classifying as "truck." A "truck with rear seating not for hire" gets a special "5" classification. The Commissioner of Land
Transportation resolves disputes in vehicle classification..

(c) "Articulated vehicle" shall mean any motor vehicle with a trailer having no front axle and so attached that part of the
trailer rests upon motor vehicle and a substantial part of the weight of the trailer and of its load is borne by the motor
vehicle. Such a trailer shall be called as "semi-trailer."
(d) "Driver" shall mean every and any licensed operator of a motor vehicle.

(e) "Professional driver" shall mean every and any driver hired or paid for driving or operating a motor vehicle, whether
for private use or for hire to the public. Any person driving his own motor vehicle for hire is a professional driver.

(f) "Owner" shall mean the actual legal owner of a motor vehicle, in whose name such vehicle is duly registered with the
Land Transportation Commission. The "owner" of a government-owned motor vehicle is the head of the office or the
chief of the Bureau to which the said motor vehicle belongs.

(g) "Garage" shall mean any building in which two or more motor vehicles, either with or without drivers, are kept ready
for hire to the public, but shall not include street stands, public service stations, or other public places designated by
proper authority as parking spaces for motor vehicles for hire while awaiting or soliciting business.

(h) "Gross weight" shall mean the measured weight of a motor vehicle plus the maximum allowable carrying capacity in
merchandise, freight and/or passenger, as determined by the Commissioner of Land Transportation

(i) "Highways" shall mean every public thoroughfare, public boulevard, driveway, avenue, park, alley and Callejon, but
shall not include roadway upon grounds owned by private persons, colleges, universities, or other similar institutions.

(j) "The Commissioner of Land Transportation or his deputies shall mean the actual or acting chief of the Land
Transportation Commission or such representatives, deputies, or assistants as he may, with the approval of the Secretary
of Public Works and Communications, appoint or designate in writing for the purpose contemplated by this Act.

(k) "Parking or parked", for the purposes of this Act, shall mean that a motor vehicle is "parked" or "parking" if it has
been brought to a stop on the shoulder or proper edge of a highway, and remains inactive in that place or close thereto
for an appreciable period. A motor vehicle which properly stops merely to discharge a passenger or to take in a waiting
passenger, or to load or unload a small quantity of freight with reasonable dispatch shall not be considered as "parked",
if the motor vehicle again moves away without delay.

(l) "Tourist" shall mean a foreigner who travels from place to place for pleasure or culture.

B. SELECTED PROVISIONS OF R.A 4136

1. Exceeding Registered Capacity (Overloading)- Passengers, freight or cargo load of a motor vehicle should not be more
than its registered carrying capacity. Conductors are held liable of public utility trucks or buses for overloading.

All passenger automobiles for hire shall have the registered passenger capacity plainly and

conspicuously marked on both sides thereof, in letters and numerals not less than five (5) centimeters in height. All
motor trucks, whether for passenger or freight, private, or for hire, shall have the registered passenger gross and net
weight capacities plainly and conspicuously marked on both sides thereof, in letters and numerals not less than five(5)
centimeters in height.
 2. CARGO CARRYING DEVICES- may be allowed to construct any cargo carrying device at the rear or at the side of
the truck, subject to the approval of the Commissioner: Provided, however, That the total weight of the device,
including the cargo, shall not exceed one hundred kilos.

3. Riding on Running Board-It is strictly prohibited, except for conductors collecting passenger fare.

4. Riding on top of the Motor Vehicle- Passengers shall not be allowed to ride on top of motor vehicles, but baggage or
freight maybe carried on top of the truck, provided that the weight thereof is not more than 20 kilos per square meter
distributed in such a way as not to endanger passengers or the vehicle's stability.

5. Required Motor Vehicle Accessories

(a) Tires of motor vehicles. - No motor vehicle with metallic tires shall be operated upon any public highway, and solid
tires whenever used shall be of sufficient thickness to prevent the metal rims thereof from coming in direct contact with
the road.

(b) Brakes - Every motor vehicle with four or more wheels shall be provided with dual hydraulic brake system so that in
case of hydraulic line failure affecting the braking efficiency of any of the four wheels at least either the front or rear
wheels shall retain normal braking capabilities

(b-1) Horns. Every motor vehicle shall be provided with a horn or signaling devise in good working order: Provided,
however, that no horn or signaling device emitting an exceptionally loud, startling, or disagreeable sound shall be
installed or used on any motor vehicle.

(c) Headlights. The vehicle should have 2 headlights, one on each side, which must be dimmed when meeting another
vehicle.

(d) Taillights. - Installed at the rear portion of the vehicle, this should be visible at least 500 meters away

(e) Stop lights. Installed at the rear portion of the vehicle, this should be visible at least 100 meters away. Red lights are
prohibited at the forward portion of the vehicle.

(f) Motorcycle and other vehicle lights. - Every motor vehicle of less than one meter of projected width shall be subject
to the preceding provisions of this section, except that one headlight and one taillight shall be required. No signal light
shall be necessary.

(g) Lights when parked or disabled. - Appropriate parking lights or flares visible one hundred meters away shall be
displayed at a corner of the vehicle whenever such vehicle is parked on highways or in places that are not well-lighted or
is placed in such manner as to endanger passing traffic.

(h) Windshield wiper. - Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mechanically or electrically operated device for
wiping off raindrops or other moisture from its front windshield.

(i) Use of red flag. Whenever the load of any vehicle extends more than one meter beyond the bed or body thereof,
there shall be displayed at every projecting end of such load a red flag not less than thirty centimeters both in length and
width, except that during the hours fixed under subsection there shall be displayed, in lieu of the required red flags, red
lights visible at least fifty meters away.

(j) Mufflers. Every motor vehicle propelled by an internal combustion engine shall be equipped with a muffler, and
whenever said motor vehicle passes through a street of any city, municipality, or thickly populated district or barrio, the
muffler shall not be cut out or disconnected. No motor vehicle shall be operated in such a manner as to cause it to emit
or make any unnecessary or disagreeable odor, smoke or noise.
 A. CLASSIFICATION OF REGISTERED MOTOR VEHICLES

1. PRIVATE (not for hire)- These are motor vehicles used for the personal use of their owners.

2. PUBLIC UTILITY VEHICLE (P.U.V aka for hire)- These are registered primarily for the conveyance of passengers and
other commercial goods.

3. GOVERNMENT- These are motor vehicles owned by government offices and are used for official purposes only.

4. DIPLOMAT- These are issued to foreign diplomats and consuls assigned in the Philippines,

B. PLATE NUMBERS

1. Green with white background- Issued to private or not for hire motor vehicles (MVS).

2. Black with yellow background- Issued to PUJS.

3. Red (Maroon) with white background- Issued to government owned MVS.

4. Blue with white background- Assigned for foreign diplomats, consuls, and other foreign dignitaries.

5. Commemorative plate-issued for specific purposes such as fund-raising for government projects and programs.

Traffic control. Generally, it refers to procedures, devices and communication systems that help vehicles and vessels
safely share the same roads, rails, waterways, or air space. Traffic control establishes a set of rules and instructions that
drivers, pilots, train engineers, and ship captains rely on to avoid collisions and other hazards. Safe travel for pedestrians
is an additional goal in highway traffic control.

A. Traffic Control as Applied to Land Transportation: a system of traffic engineering, employing prescribed traffic rules
and regulations and devices such as signals, and markings, to relieve vehicular congestion and air pollution and to
promote safety and pedestrian mobility, usually in heavily populated urban areas. In smaller towns, with lighter traffic,
similar but simpler control devices and engineering techniques are used.

B. Control Techniques: The primary emphasis of traffic control is on the safe and efficient flow of cars, buses, vans and
lorries over urban streets and highways, The means of promoting this can vary from simple improvement of local streets
by installing traffic signs and road markings to constructing comprehensive motorway control systems. These systems
are:

1. Across-road meters to monitor and control motorway

2. Closed-circuit television surveillance to quickly detect any deterioration in traffic flow; and 3. Emergency services in
case of accident and injury

C. Other-traffic control techniques include:

1. The use of one-way streets 2. Enforcement of traffic flow regulations

3. Channelization (building traffic islands turning lanes and so on) and

4. The use of traffic signals

D. Highway Traffic Control

Motorists depend on traffic control devices to avoid collisions and travel safely to their destinations. Traffic
control devices for highway travel include signs, signal lights, pavement markings and a variety of devices placed on, over,
near or even under, the roadway.

1. Traffic Signs. Traffic signs are the most extensively used form of traffic control in the United States. More than 55
million traffic signs line the nation's roadside. They provide information about speed limits and mad conditions. They
direct traffic along certain routes and to specific destinations, by using signs and traffic control planners tell drivers what
to do, what to watch for and where to drive.

2. Pavement Markings. Pavement markings separate opposing streams of traffic and direct vehicles into proper positions
on the roadway. For example, pavement markings delineate tum lanes at intersections and establish no passing zones.
White and yellow paint is customarily used for pavement markings. Reflective devices are more visible at night and are
used in some locations to mark lanes and other significant places in the road.

Traffic signs and road markings follow a uniform practice throughout the world and are designated to convey information
with a minimum of words to avoid confusing drivers unfamiliar with the area and the language, Uniform pictorials signs
and markings have been adopted throughout Europe and United States. They include uniform sign formats and sizes and
uniform codes regulating the traffic law.

3. Traffic-Signal: Traffic signals are installed to permit safe movement of vehicles and pedestrians at busy intersections.
The signal light is probably the most easily recognized traffic control device. At a busy intersection in a large city, a traffic
signal may control the movements of more than 100,000 vehicles per day. More than 60 percent of all miles driven each
year are on roadways controlled by traffic signals.

Traffic signals direct streams of vehicles and pedestrians when to go, stop or proceed with caution. The signals increase
the traffic handing capacity of most intersections. They can work independently on timers or connect to a computer-
controlled system that operates over several intersections.

4.Priority control: In one of the oldest methods of traffic control, one form of transportation is given priority by
restricting Roman Emperor Julius Caesar banned wheel traffic from Rome during daytime, which allowed pedestrians and
horse riders to move freely around the city. Some modern cities ban or restrict truck travel through certain
neighborhoods.

Bus lanes and high occupancy vehicles lanes exist in many urban areas. Only specified types of vehicles, primarily those
carrying several occupants can use these lanes. By giving priority to thigh occupancy vehicles transportation planners
encourage carpooling and reduce congestion.

5. Restraints. As an alternative to banning traffic, traffic control planners use devices to discourage heavy use of a route.
Island built in the centers of intersections force drivers to proceed slowly. Speed bumps discourage high speed
commuting through residential neighborhoods. Concrete median strips prevent vehicles from making turns except at
Intersections.
 X. TRAFFIC SIGNAL LIGHTS

Traffic Lights. These refers to any power operated traffic control device by which traffic is warned or directed to take
some specific actions. Traffic light signals are used to control traffic at junctions and to stop traffic to provide safe
crossing points for pedestrians and cyclists.

The color of traffic lights is chronologically arranged to give motorists a better view of signal lights. From the top, the
series of colors 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 green, yellow, and red lights.

A Historical Background. Traffic lights were first introduced on railways- the American railroads. Their application on the
road came only later. The choice of their colors, internationally adopted, was not arbitrary. It was the result of traditions,
careful considerations, and experience.

1. The Colors. Today, traffic lights are taken for granted. Few realize the amount of deliberation and the various factors
that lead to their selection. To begin with, fundamental conditions had to be met.

a. The colors had to be recognized easily, quickly, and unmistakably,

b. This had to be possible from a considerable distance and while in motion.

c. The quality, intensity and contrasts of the colors had to be such that they served their purpose in all weather,
day, and night.

As for the choice of the individual colors best suited to convey the essential information, some seemed to be
"pre-selected. Certain colors were traditionally linked with the very purpose they were now meant to serve. Almost from
antiquity, their association had prepared them to express to the modem age of speed the command to stop, to pay heed,
or to go "full steam" ahead,

2. Red for "Stop". Red was an obvious choice for "stop". It had always represented danger. Fire was red: man had
learned early on to keep a safe distance from it lest he be burned. Blood was red; to shed it, brought death. It is no
wonder that therefore, red became associated with emergency and with danger.

3. White for "Go". Though to give the green light" has become the proverbial permissive signal in many a situation,
green was not the original choice for "go." White first indicated that the railroad was safe and that the train could
proceed without danger. After all, white had always been regarded, though unscientifically so, as a pure and clear color.
Consequently, in the language of symbolism it came to express purity. Therefore, it was surprising either that initially it
was decided upon to make it the signal that the line was "clear."

4. Caution. Two "lights" were to control the running of trains while for "go" and red for "stop". It was then realized that
safety would be served better still by introducing a cautionary light to warn the driver of an imminent change. Its color
once again was to be determined by considerations of contrast, distinctiveness, and visibility. The eventual choice was
green.

5. Green for "Go". It did not take long for "white" to prove the wrong color for "go". The bitter experience taught that it
was far from ideal. In fact, it could prove fatal and for a very pertinent reason. At that early stage, kerosene lamps served
as the source of light. Any color other than white was produced by fixing a color glass plate in front of the lamp.
B. From Rail to Road Traffic

Key Points:
1. Traffic intersections became increasingly challenging to manage manually, leading to the need for mechanical aids.
2. The adoption of the railroad signal system was a significant step in addressing traffic control challenges.
3. In England, the first traffic lights were installed near Parliament, primarily to assist Members of Parliament in crossing
the street safely. These gas-lit lanterns had red and green signals and were introduced in 1868.
4. Unfortunately, one of these early gas-powered traffic lights experienced an explosion in 1869, causing injuries to a
policeman.
5. One of the world's first electric traffic lights was developed in 1912 in Salt Lake City, Utah, by Lester Wire, a detective
on the city police force.
6. This early electric traffic light system featured red and green lights shining through circular openings in a wooden box
mounted on a pole and was manually operated.
7. In 1914, Cleveland, Ohio, introduced a more advanced electric traffic signal that served as a prototype for modern
systems. It included red and green lights controlled manually or automatically and featured warning buzzers.
8. New York City introduced the first automatic three-colored traffic lights in 1918, signaling a significant advancement in
traffic control.
9. Britain followed suit in 1926 with manually operated traffic lights in London's West End.
10. Wolverhampton conducted a successful one-day experiment with automatic traffic lights in 1927, leading to their
adoption in other cities like Leeds and Edinburgh, eventually becoming a common feature in traffic control worldwide.

C. Classification of Traffic Signal Lights. Traffic signal lights are further classified into three.

1. Traffic Control Signals. These are signal 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 rall intersections designed to inform
motorists of any approaching train at the intersection.
4. Other Special Traffic Signals. These are installed on road-rail intersections designed to inform motorists of any
approaching train at the intersection.

D. Specific Meaning of Traffic Lights. To attain more effective and efficient controlling of traffic, each color of the traffic
light has specific meaning and traffic regulation.

1.Steady Red
a. STOP at the designated line
b. Vehicles will be crossing from the other side.
c. expects pedestrians to cross the pedestrian lane.
d. Unless specified, you can TURN RIGHT after a FULL STOP to clear traffic coming from the left.
2. Steady Green
a. GO
b. It is the tum of the vehicles on the other side to STOP.
C. Pedestrians are not allowed to cross the pedestrian.
d. Unless specified, you can move up to the middle section of the intersection and make a left turn when clear.
e. Vehicles GOING STRAIGHT have the right of way.
f. DO NOT ANTICIPATE A GREEN LIGHT
3. Steady Green Arrow
a. GO
b. Vehicles turning left can do so c. On coming straight traffic is still RED to give way for the vehides turning left
d. DO NOT ANTICIPATE A GREEN ARROW
4. Steady Yellow
a. PREPARE TO STOP
b. It is the tum of the vehicles on the other side and will be given the GO signal shortly.
c. DO NOT BEAT A VELLOW LIGHT
5. Flashing Red
a. This is the same as STOP SIGN
b. STOP at the designated line
c. Vehicles will be crossing from the "other side."
d. Expect pedestrians to cross at the pedestrians' lane.
e. PROCEED WHEN CLEAR
6. Flashing Yellow
a. This is the same as a YIELD SIGN
b. Proceed through the intersection with CAUTION.
c. You have the right of way over a flashing RED LIGHT
d. Vehicles on the other side will proceed after coming to a FULLSTOP.
7. Steady Green and Steady Left/Right Arrow
a. Vehicles can go straight or vehicles on the left lane can make a left turn,
b. Vehicles can go straight or vehicles on the right lane can make a right tum.
c. The RIGHT GREEN signal might or might NOT have a road sign disallowing a right turn while the RED light is ON

XII. PAVEMENT MARKINGS AND MARKERS

Pavement Markings and Markers. The pavements of all main highways have certain markings to help
you drive seldy. Those include the center lane lines, barrier lines and directional arrows, depending upon the
type of highway and the needs for such markings to make the road safe under varying conditions.

A. Pavement Markings Defined. These pertain to 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.

Similarly, pavement markings are standardized as to color and location to conform to international
standards. Basically, pavement markings are placed on the roadway to convey warning or Information to the
road users without diverting their attention from the roadway under favorable condition.

B. Types of Pavement Markings and Markers. Pavement markings and markers are further classified into the following
depending on their purpose and location of placement.

1. Pavement Markings. These are the lines usually white and yellow or a combination of yellow and white officially
set on the roadway as separation for motor vehicles traveling in the opposite direction or the same direction in
case of two-lane one-way street, two-lane, two-way street or four lane, two way.
 2. Curb Markings for Restrictions. These are markings placed on the curbs or edges of the traffic for restriction or
for parking regulation purposes.

3. Object Makings. These are markings placed on objects on the road or beside the road like humps, rocks or
similar hazardous objects on the side of the road.

4. Reflectorized Markings. These are markings or gadgets designated to reflect and become luminous when hit by
vehicles headlight. These are placed or installed in the middle of the roadway to supplement separation lines or
on objects at the side of the roadway which are too near or within the road pavement itself.

C. Specific Meaning of Pavement Markings. Pavement markings vary depending on the traffic regulations in its location
or depending on the road or traffic condition.
1. Single White Dotted Line. This pavement marking indicates the following:
a. On two lane road, it separates traffic moving in opposite directions.
b. On a one-way street, separates traffic moving in one direction.
c. Overtaking is possible when another lane is clear of oncoming possible.
2. Single White Continuous Line in a two- Lane Traffic Way. This line indicates the following.
a. Separate traffic moving in the opposite direction.
b. Could be found in road sections that are dangerous.
c. Passing and overtaking can be made but ONLY under circumstances when there is no oncoming traffic.
3. Single Continuous Line on a Four lane Road. This sign when found on four lane streets, indicates:
a. When there are slow and fast lanes, NEVER overtake by passing over the solid white line.
b. Lanes 1 and 4 (outer lanes) for slow-moving vehicles. Vehicles on this lane should not be BELOW the
minimum speed limit,
c. Lanes 2 and 3 (inner lanes) are usually for faster moving vehicles.
4. Double Yellow Line or Double White Line. A double yellow or white line with a dotted line in between means.
a. ABSOLUTELY NO OVERTAKING
b. Overtaking is extremely dangerous.
c. Stay in your lane until you pass the end of the solid lines.
5. Single Yellow/ White Line. A white or yellow line with a dotted white line means.
a. That you cannot overtake if the solid line is on your side.
b. If you overtake, return to your lane BEFORE the solid line.
6. Yellow Continuous Line on Road Provided with a Passing Lane. This line indicates the following:
a. These are common on mountain roads.
b. Slow moving vehicles such as buses and
c. Heavy trucks should always use the outer lane.
d. Inner Lane (lane 2) is for vehicles to pass without having to use the other lane (lane 1) for vehicles
coming from the opposite direction.
e. vehicles coming from the opposite direction (lane 1) should not use the inner lane (lane 2) at the
other side for overtaking.
 7. Crosswalk or Pedestrian Lane. This pavement marking indicates the following:
a. For pedestrians to cross.
b. Stop for pedestrians on an intersection with no traffic light
c. DO NOT STOP on pedestrian lanes, especially to load or unload passengers.
d. Pedestrians should ALWAYS cross a street on a crosswalk.
8. Directional Arrows. These pavement markings indicate the following traffic regulations.
a. Directions of permitted traffic movement
b. When approaching intersections where pavement arrows are used, you should enter the lane where
the arrow points in the direction you want to go.
C. If you get in the wrong lane, you should keep going in the direction 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.
d. Some have double headed arrows which means the lane is for traffic going in the two.
directions indicated.
9. Stop Lines. These are painted across pavement lanes at traffic signs or signals Where these.
lines are present, you should stop behind the stop line.
10. The Barrel Lines. A new concept in reducing the seriousness of accidents. The barrels are engineered to act
as impact cushions. Usually installed in front of a solid obstacle or traffic island at an area of high accident frequency,

XIII. TRAFFIC ISLANDS

A. Traffic Islands Defined. These are areas within the roadway constructed in a manner to establish physical
channels through which vehicular traffic is guided.
B. Functions of Traffic Islands. Traffic islands as part of traffic control devices are designed to:
1. Segregate pedestrians and vehicles; and
2. Control streams of traffic to minimize conflict, expedite traffic flow or increase safety
C. Classifications of Traffic Islands. Traffic islands are classified according to the design, place of Installation and purpose
of construction.
1. Pedestrian Island (Pedestrian Barriers). These are constructed between the pedestrian sidewalk and the road
pavement to prevent pedestrians from using the roadway in passing and to prevent motor vehicles from using the
sidewalk for parking and passing purposes.
2. Traffic Islands. These are the raised portions in the middle of the traffic way constructed to separate the
streams of motor vehicles traversing in opposite directions and at the same time preventing motorists from using the
opposite lane for overtaking. Traffic islands are further sub- classified into three.
a. Division Islands. These are constructed primarily to divide the streams of motor vehicles.
b. Channeling Island. These are constructed to channelize or direct the flow of traffic.
c. Rotary Islands. These are constructed along intersections or rotundas" for the purpose of turning
around.
Their functions are:
1. Prohibit pedestrians from crossing major thoroughfares at points where such crossing is exceptionally
hazardous
2. Minimize imprudence and delays to vehicular traffic, and
3. Channelize and control pedestrians