TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei, New Taipei, and Taoyuan cities have launched a new point system for YouBike violations starting Monday (July 1) to enhance road safety and pedestrian rights.
Under this system, users who accumulate three points face a 14-day suspension, seven points lead to a one-year ban, and those caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are banned for two years. The Department of Transportation, Taipei City Government, reported 18 violations on the first morning, primarily for riding on arcades.
The Transportation Management Division head, Chu Chen-tso, focused on penalizing those riding under arcades, with 18 points issued this morning alone. The penalty has led to more people walking their bikes through these areas. The main violation hotspots are near MRT stations and underground street entrances around No. 55, Sec. 4, Zhongxiao E. Rd., and No. 15, Sec. 1, Heping E. Rd.
However, some users have criticized the incomplete planning of bicycle lanes and the lack of infrastructure, arguing that penalizing them under these conditions is unfair. Others express concern that pushing bikes onto roads could lead to traffic accidents. Chin Hua neighborhood head, Wen Mei-chu, observed at least five consecutive violations in arcades and supported the point system, urging cyclists to respect pedestrians and suggesting that walking bikes is a viable alternative when necessary.
The Taipei City Parking Management and Development Office, with a team of 66 traffic assistants, is the primary enforcement body, supplemented by public reports. Future collaborations with the Taipei City Police Department's Traffic Division to ensure street compliance and safety are considered.