TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's government has enacted new regulations to enhance pedestrian safety, yet challenges persist as the Control Yuan — the supervisory and auditory branch of the government of the Republic of China — aims to refine these measures amid stagnant car accident rates. Civil groups argue that reducing traffic accidents requires more than just law enforcement.
In New Taipei City's Shulin District, an intersection now features "wedge markings," a technique borrowed from Japan, credited with reducing accidents where traffic lights aren't feasible, according to Liao Ting-yin, Shufu Village Chief.
However, Control Yuan members highlighted a troubling trend in April: over the past decade, pedestrian traffic accidents have risen. They cited 2023 data showing more than 400,000 pedestrian incidents and nearly 540,000 traffic-related injuries, marking a record high. This surge in accidents casts doubt on the efficacy of governmental spending on road safety.
Lin Chih-hsueh, vice president of the Taiwan Traffic Safety Association, emphasizes that alongside law enforcement, educating road users is vital for safety. He advocates for ongoing assessment and adjustment of traffic laws to ensure their effectiveness.