Taiwan Cracks Down on Reckless Driving: Stiff Penalties for Pedestrian Safety

New Measures to Enhance Pedestrian Safety: Fines Soar for Drivers Failing to Yield.

TAIPEI, Taiwan – The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) in Taiwan has announced a significant increase in fines for drivers who seriously injure or kill pedestrians, aiming to bolster pedestrian safety across the nation.

Following the implementation of stricter penalties two years ago, the MOTC has recognized the ongoing issue of drivers failing to yield to pedestrians. The proposed amendment to the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act aims to enhance deterrence and significantly improve road safety for pedestrians.

Since June 30, 2023, Taiwan has already implemented steeper penalties for drivers failing to yield. While the ministry reported a slight improvement in traffic safety, more action is clearly needed.

In 2024, a total of 17,162 pedestrians were injured or killed, marking a decrease of 498 from the previous year (2.82%). Pedestrian fatalities dropped from 380 to 366. Alarmingly, approximately 20% of those deaths (83) were caused by drivers failing to yield.

According to Article 44, Item 4 of the act, drivers are obligated to stop for pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections, and they are also required to yield to visually impaired individuals utilizing white canes or guide dogs.

To further encourage compliance, the MOTC has announced increases in fines for accidents resulting in injuries. These new penalties are slated to take effect as early as the end of June.

The minimum fine for causing minor injuries due to failure to yield will increase from NT$7,200 to NT$18,000. The penalty for causing serious injury or death will be raised to a hefty NT$36,000, unifying the penalty for both outcomes.

MOTC Chief Secretary Shen Hui-hung (沈慧虹) emphasized that "people-oriented transportation" is a national priority, during a media briefing. She highlighted strong public backing for initiatives like increasing the distance between stop lines and crosswalks, implementing pedestrian refuge islands, adding pedestrian-only signals, and giving pedestrians a head start at intersections.

She also pointed to the nationwide adoption of fully illuminated pedestrian green lights, which was originally implemented in Taipei, as an example of how thoughtful design can enhance safety. According to Shen, when both pedestrians and drivers exercise patience, vehicles can pass safely, and pedestrians feel more secure.

It is important to note that, in addition to MOTC fines, drivers involved in serious incidents may face additional legal consequences contingent upon the severity and specific circumstances of the case.