Nowadays, more and more people are using motorcycles in the Philippines, as a means of transport as well as in the delivery of goods and services. After all, motorcycles are swift, usually able to weave through traffic, and cost much less than a four-wheel vehicle.
At the same time, however, there has been an increase in the number of motorcycle accidents. Clearly, there is a need to remind motorcycle riders about traffic laws and regulations that are designed for their own safety, and for the well-being of their passengers and even pedestrians, too.
Laws Every Motorcycle Rider Should Know
In this article, we will take a look at several laws that every motorcycle rider in the Philippines should know. If you’re one them, keep on reading to make sure that you know all of these laws by heart!
1. Land Transportation and Traffic Code
Enacted in 1964, Republic Act No. 4136 is better known as the “Land Transportation and Traffic Code.” Basically, this law governs the registration of motor vehicles, along with the licensing of owners, drivers, dealers, conductors, and more. It also covers general traffic laws, penalties, traffic safety, and other important matters.
In relation to R.A. 4136, LTO Memorandum Circular 2019-2176 puts emphasis on the implementation of standardized “driver education,” which seeks to improve road safety and effective communication among motorists. Every vehicle user — be it a motorcycle, car, or others — should be aware of this basic law.
2. Rules on Operation of Motorcycles
LTO Administrative Order No. AHS-2008-015, issued on May 15, 2008, is titled “Rules and Regulations for the Use and Operation of Motorcycles on Highways.” It contains basic laws regarding the registration of motorcycles and licensing of motorcycle riders.
This document includes other motorcycle-related topics, such as:
- Passenger. Only one (1) back rider is allowed on a motorcyle; he/she must be provided with a seat and footrest.
- Cargo Load. Motorcycles should not carry cargo other than saddle bags or carriers that are designed and approved by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
- Dress Code. Motorycle riders should wear proper footwear (i.e. shoes that cover their feet, at least above the ankles).
Failure to follow these rules could cost you a hefty fine. For example, carrying more than one passenger or cargo other than saddles bags or carriers correspond to a PHP 1,000 fine. Meanwhile, wearing slippers, sandals, or going barefoot while riding could lead to a fine of PHP 500 for the first offense, PHP 700 for the second offense, and PHP 1,000 plus revocation of your driver’s license for the third offense!
3. Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009
Republic Act No. 10054 or the “Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009” requires all riders to wear protective helmets while on the road. Failure to comply could lead to a fine of PHP 1,500 for the first offense, PHP 3,000 for the second offense, PHP 5,000 for the third offense, and PHP 10,000 plus confiscation of your driver’s license for the fourth offense!
4. Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013
Republic Act No. 10586 is also called the “Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013.” It goes without saying that being drunk or under the influence of drugs could lead to devastating consequences for motorcycles, passengers, and pedestrians, too.
Breaking this law could lead to serious penalties. Violators who do not cause physical injuries or death could face a fine between PHP 20,000 and PHP 80,000, plus a prison time of three (3) months. On the other hand, incidents that lead to physical injuries could lead to a fine of PHP 100,000 up to PHP 200,000. Finally, violations that result in death could involve fines between PHP 300,000 and PHP 500,000, along with confiscation and revocation of driver’s licenses.
5. Children’s Safety on Motorcycles Act of 2015
The Children’s Safety on Motorcycle Act of 2015 strictly prohibits the driving of vehicles with children on board on public roads with heavy traffic. It also forbids driving on roads where there are many fast-moving vehicles.
If a motorcycle rider is found to be driving with a child on a busy road, without proper protection — he/she could face a fine of PHP 3,000 for the first offense, PHP 5,000 for the second offense, PHP 10,000 for the third offense, and PHP 10,000 plus immediate cancellation of driver’s license for the fourth offense.
6. Anti-Distracted Driving Act
Republic Act No. 10914 or the “Anti-Distracted Driving Act” was enacted in 2016. As the law states, this law prohibits all drivers — including motorcycle riders — from using gadgets (e.g. mobile phones, tablets) while driving on the road.
Violators of this law could face a fine of PHP 5,000 for the first offense, PHP 10,000 for the second offense, PHP 15,000 plus three-month suspension of license for the third offense, and PHP 20,000 plus cancellation of driver’s license for the fourth offense.
7. Motorcycle Crime Prevention Act
Republic Act No. 11235 or the “Motorcycle Crime Prevention Act” was enacted on March 8, 2019. The law “prevents and penalizes the use of motorcycles in the commission of crimes.”
Under this law, motorcycle owners must register their vehicles with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) within the first five (5) days; or file a report if ownership has been transferred. After registration, they will receive number plates to be attached to their motorcycles.
If a motorcycle is caught without number plates, authorities can seize the vehicle, while the owner must pay a fine of PHP 50,000 up to PHP 100,000. This law contains other regulations, as well.
Infographic: Motorcycle Violations and Fines
The following infographic is shared by the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA) through their Facebook page. The MDPPA is an organization that aims to educate motorcycle riders about the laws that they should follow at all times.
The infographic lists several violations and their corresponding fines or penalties:
- Failure to carry a driver’s license – P1,000
- Failure to wear a helmet (first offense) – P1,500
- Reckless driving (first offense) – PHP 2,000
- Driving without a valid license conductor’s permit – PHP 3,000
- Driving an unregistered vehicle – P10,000
For more information about the MMDPA, together with other rules and regulations about motorcycle riding, you can visit the organization’s official Facebook page.
Final Thoughts
If you are a motorcycle user, please take time to review the above laws, and strive to obey them at all times. Laws are meant to ensure your safety, as well as those of your passengers and other motorists. Furthermore, always remember to drive responsibly!
Aside from motorcycles, more and more people are using e-Bikes and other electric vehicles. Take note that if you plan to use an e-Bike on public and national roads, you’ll need to register it. Head to this article to know more about how to register e-Bikes.