LTO eyes photos as evidence of Anti-Distracted Driving law violations

On Day 1 of the Anti-Distracted Driving Act's full implementation, the  Metro Manila Development Authority had listed more than 70 violators, according to the report of GMA News' Cedric Castillo for "24 Oras."

An SUV-driver along Quezon Avenue was stopped by Land Transportation Office (LTO) personnel for holding his mobile phone on a moving vehicle.

Even after the driver contested that he wasn't fully aware of the revisons, he was issued a violation ticket for his first offense for which the fine was P5,000 pesos.

"Hindi ko alam kung ano'ng bawal, I mean, alam kong bawal gumamit ng cellphone, pero hindi ko alam na bawal gamitin, na hawakan, kahit Waze ang gamit," he said.

Col. Rolando Abelardo, the LTO law enforcement chief, pointed out "Pag nakuha namin ang evidence, 'pag na-picturan namin, 'yun ang proof namin na gumagamit talaga siya ng cellphone."

Motorists are prohibited from using cellphones for texting, calling, connecting to the internet except when a hands-free device is used or for cases of emergency.

The revised version of the law makes it clear that the 'line of sight', which starts four inches from above the dashboard and up, should be clear of gadgets or distractions.

The law also advises drivers to pre-set navigational apps before their journey.

Moreover, dashboard cameras should be attached behind the vehicle's rear-view mirror.

Although LTO personnel on Thursday stopped several motorists for improper placement of gadgets on their dashboards, they were let off with a warning.

"Nag-picture na kami ng apat siguro, ipapakita namin 'dun sa legal expert namin...para may standard kami, may dala kaming sukat, 'pag lumampas doon, automatic," an enforcer said. — Margaret Claire Layug/BAP, GMA News