TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Highway Bureau (公路局) reported on Tuesday (Nov. 12) a concerning rise in fatal accidents on national highways, with 57 incidents recorded from January to October this year. Officials attributed 36.8% of these accidents to distracted or fatigued driving, underscoring the need for increased driver awareness and safety measures.
Tsai Ming-che (蔡明哲), section chief of the bureau's traffic management division, noted that both the total number of fatal accidents and those specifically caused by fatigued driving have increased compared to the same period last year.
In the previous year, the highway reported 45 incidents, with 13 linked directly to driver fatigue. Tsai remarked that drivers may not respond promptly to sudden situations when distracted or fatigued and advised motorists to ensure they are well-rested before embarking on journeys.
The bureau also emphasized safety precautions for drivers, particularly urging small vehicles to avoid driving between large trucks to prevent exacerbating rear-end collisions. Additionally, officials highlighted that certain sections of National Freeway 1, 3, 5, and 6 are prone to fog from November through March, advising drivers to maintain safe distances during these months.
With the rise in accidents, the bureau continues to remind road users of the critical importance of staying alert and ensuring adequate rest to mitigate risks on the highways. As fog season approaches, drivers should heed these warnings to enhance safety on the roads.