TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Minister of Transportation and Communications Li Meng-Yen (李孟諺) visited the Taipei City Motor Vehicles Office on Wednesday (July 31), where he said the average number of traffic accident fatalities per 100,000 people in Taiwan was twice that of South Korea, with 60% of deaths associated with scooters and motorcycles.

Taiwan reported 3,023 road fatalities last year, according to Taiwan Vision Zero Alliance. This figure was a 1.2% drop compared to 2022.

Li said drivers have responded to government efforts to improve safety at intersections, allowing pedestrians the right of way. Also, traffic safety islands and better signage have improved pedestrian safety, per CNA.

According to Li, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) has emphasized new motorcycle and scooter rider training.

Li hoped the Highway Bureau and other agencies could also offer driver education courses. Ongoing road safety training could reduce traffic infractions and improve driver skills and behavior.

Chiang Shu-jen (江澍人), director of the Taipei City Motor Vehicles Office, said the MOTC began a motorcycle and scooter training subsidy program in 2019 for new riders applying for their licenses. In April 2023, a pilot road safety training course was initiated, inviting instructors to educate students about traffic safety.

The Highway Bureau said research by an independent group showed that driver training courses reduce the risk of violations by 56%, and reduce accident risk by 35%. 

Enrolling in a motorcycle and scooter training class pre-test qualifies each participant for a tuition subsidy of NT$1,300 (US$40). Those who already have a license and still wish to participate in a road safety training course qualify for a NT$1,200 (US$37) tuition subsidy.