TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC, 交通部) announced plans on Thursday (March 13) to dramatically increase penalties for drivers who injure or kill pedestrians, particularly in crosswalks. The sweeping changes, which would substantially raise fines and extend license revocation periods, represent one of the most significant crackdowns on dangerous driving in recent years.
Under the proposed measures, drivers who cause severe pedestrian injuries would face fines of NT$36,000 and lose their driving privileges for up to five years. Transportation Minister Chen Shih-kai (陳世凱) expressed national embarrassment over pedestrian accidents at crosswalks, framing the issue as a matter of civic responsibility and public safety that requires immediate attention.
The ministry aims to implement these changes by early summer, with legislative proposals expected to be finalized by late May. For incidents resulting in minor injuries, penalties would also increase significantly to NT$18,000, with license suspensions ranging from one to two years, reflecting a graduated approach to enforcement based on the severity of consequences.
Beyond immediate penalties, the ministry plans to extend the waiting period before offending drivers can apply for new licenses. Those responsible for causing severe injuries would be banned from retesting for four years, while drivers involved in fatal accidents would face a five-year prohibition on obtaining a new license. Minister Chen emphasized that these extended bans are designed to keep dangerous drivers off Taiwan's roads for meaningful periods of time.
The minister highlighted the fundamental importance of pedestrian safety at all crosswalks throughout Taiwan, noting that the legislative process to implement these stricter measures should advance by midyear. The comprehensive approach signals a shift in how Taiwan addresses traffic safety, moving from education alone toward more consequential enforcement.
The initiative extends beyond driver behavior to address pedestrian responsibility as well. Minister Chen called for greater adherence to traffic safety rules among pedestrians, specifically mentioning the dangers of using mobile phones while crossing streets. He noted that the Ministry of the Interior (MOI, 內政部) has directed police units across Taiwan to enhance enforcement of traffic regulations for all road users, creating a dual approach to improving safety.