The Executive Yuan approved revisions to the Act Governing the Punishment of Violation of Road Traffic Regulations today, toughening penalties for intoxicated drivers. The draft amendment will be sent to the Legislative Yuan for review.
According to the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), the number of fatalities from drunk driving—the top cause of road accidents—has been on the rise over the years. The recent spate of such incidents has also sparked a public outcry for review of current regulations.
To deter drivers from driving under the influence or from refusing to stop for sobriety checks, thus endangering the safety of law enforcement officials, the MOTC has drawn up revisions to the act as follows:
1. The amendment adds Paragraphs 7 and 8 to Article 92, delegating the authority to administer punishment to the public road agencies. Those who find rulings unacceptable may take remedial action per Article 237-1 of the Administrative Litigation Act.
2. Fines will be raised from NT$60,000 (US$2,000) to NT$90,000 on drivers who exceed the blood-alcohol content limit or are under the influence of narcotics or substances of a similar nature, as well as on drivers who commit violations two or more times within five years. Heavier fines will also be imposed on those who refuse to stop for sobriety checks. (Revisions to Articles 8, 35, and 67)