Taipei, June 29 (CNA) Motorists caught failing to yield to pedestrians could face a maximum fine of NT$6,000 (US$193), and will also be required to attend traffic-safety lectures as several new traffic rules come into force Friday.
According to the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), the lecture requirement extends to motorists refusing to stop at police checkpoints, and those who fail to properly secure cargo on vehicles, leading to items falling and obstructing the roadway.
The new rules are based on an amendment to the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act passed in April, which stipulates that drivers who do not allow pedestrians to pass first, either at pedestrian crossings or other areas designated for pedestrians to cross a road, would face a fine of between NT$1,200 and NT$6,000, up from NT$1,200 to NT$3,600.
Also, if such a violation results in injuries or death, the driver faces a higher fine ranging from NT$7,200 to NT$36,000 and could have their driving license suspended for one year or revoked.
Separately on Thursday, the Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) said first-time offenders caught violating the tranquility of the lives of others in certain noise control areas, such as schools, libraries and medical institutions, with a vehicle will be fined NT$6,000 under the Noise Control Act effective from Friday.
In a news release, the EPA said the purpose for doubling the minimum fine for first-time offenders is so that motorists can be deterred from making excessive noise at night and in these noise control areas.
Currently, the minimum fine for committing such a violation under the law is NT$3,000.
For repeat offenders, the fine will double until it reaches the limit of NT$30,000, it said, indicating if it was to exceed that amount, the law will need to be amended.
Also, owners whose vehicles were inspected to exceed the allowable noise level will be directly issued a maximum fine of NT$3,600 starting Friday, the EPA said.
