TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) on Monday announced plans to raise the maximum fine for seriously injuring or killing a pedestrian to NT$36,000 (US$1,200).
Two years after the MOTC increased penalties for drivers failing to yield to pedestrians, many motorists still do not comply, per CNA. The ministry said the draft amendment to the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act aims to strengthen deterrence and improve pedestrian safety.
Since June 30, 2023, vehicles failing to stop and yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or while turning have faced steeper penalties. The ministry reported a slight improvement in traffic safety.
In 2024, 17,162 pedestrians were killed or injured, down 498 from the previous year, or 2.82%. Pedestrian fatalities dropped from 380 to 366, but 83 deaths—roughly 20%—were still caused by drivers failing to yield.
Under Article 44, Item 4 of the act, drivers must stop for pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections and yield to visually impaired individuals using a white cane or guide dog.
To further deter noncompliance, the MOTC said fines for accidents resulting in injury would be raised. The new penalties are expected to take effect as early as late June.
The minimum fine for causing minor injuries by failing to yield will increase from NT$7,200 to NT$18,000. Causing serious injury or death will be penalized at NT$36,000, up from NT$18,000, unifying the penalty for both outcomes.
MOTC Chief Secretary Shen Hui-hung (沈慧虹) said during a media briefing that people-oriented transportation has become a national consensus. She cited high public support for measures such as increasing the distance between stop lines and crosswalks, installing pedestrian refuge islands, adding pedestrian-only signals, and giving pedestrians a five- to 10-second head start at intersections.
She pointed to the nationwide adoption of fully illuminated pedestrian green lights—first introduced in Taipei—as an example of improved safety through thoughtful design. When both pedestrians and drivers wait a little longer for each other, vehicles can pass safely, and pedestrians also feel more secure, Shen said.
In addition to MOTC fines, drivers involved in serious incidents may face further legal consequences depending on the severity and circumstances of the case.
