Driving Around Tagbilaran City and Bohol
Posted on February 14th, 2008 by admin
If you are from the west or in other developed nations, you might find driving around Tagbilaran as an adrenalin rush. Unfortunately traffic rules are not strictly enforced so the usual stop sign is not really followed by most drivers. Although driving in Tagbilaran is benign compared to driving in Manila, to stay safe, you need to be aware of the following:
1. If you see someone flash their headlights, that doesn’t mean he is letting you go ahead. That means he wants to go ahead.
2. Solid lines on the road isn’t followed so just be careful since someone might pass even on this areas.
3. Don’t “argue” with trucks, buses, and other large vehicles. If they will cross the street, even if you have the right of way, let them pass. Better safe than sorry in this case. And keep your cool. The police department in your country won’t help you here.
4. At every corner, look out for crossing vehicles. Stop signs are either inexistent or are not followed. So try to “feel” the other driver… is he going to cross now? If yes, just let him pass. There is just no point asserting your right of way and raising your blood pressure. Just keep cool and understand that it is the practice here.
5. Watch out for pedestrians! They will cross the street almost anywhere other than the pedestrian line.
Is this a gloomy picture? No, not really. Driving in Tagbilaran is not too bad. Seldom would you see drivers on their throats arguing and pointing fingers. You just need to be aware of rules in your countries that are not really observed here.
Filed under: Getting Around