The revised regulations of Anti-Distracted Driving Act. Photo courtesy of Department of Transportation
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Friday released a revised implementing rules and regulation of the Anti-Distracted Driving Act (ADDA), with a new provision on the "safe zone," where dashcams or cellular phone placements are allowed.
The "safe zone" is only up to 4 inches from the vehicle dashboard. Anything beyond the said distance will be part of the "line of sight," where gadgets and objects are prohibited.
A dashcam is however allowed as long as it is placed behind the rearview mirror.
The revised ADDA will be implemented 15 days after publication of the implementing rules and regulation.
Texting and calling while driving or at a traffic light stop remain prohibited, except when making emergency calls to authorities.
The use of mobile phones for navigation applications such as Google Maps or Waze are allowed as long as they are set before driving.
Those who will violate the ADDA will be fined with P5,000 to P20,000 or revocation of license.
The agency said it already conducted a series of meetings with stakeholders to discuss the provisions, following criticisms on its “confusing regulations.”
The implementation of ADDA was suspended on May 23 after several lawmakers called for its deferment.
Department of Transportation, DOTr, ADDA, Anti-Distracted Driving Act, line of sight, safe zone, dashcam