Emergencies and Accidents

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Considering the density of Taiwan traffic and the often dangerous nature of Taiwan’s roads, emergencies are not too uncommon, so it pays to understand a little about how accidents and emergencies should be handled in the event that one should happen.

Firstly vehicles involved in an emergency should never be moved, unless they pose immediate danger to other road users, passengers or injured. Taiwan law requires that police must be contacted in all accident situations as well as any required ambulance services and that vehicles should not be moved until official records and pictures of the accident have been made. Any inconvenience to blocked traffic no matter how frustrating, is necessary if any accident vehicles are to remain in place of the accident for the police to make record of.
Vehicles that are moved from an accident scene before police arrived may leave no evidence of positioning for an official record and any compensation from responsible parties or insurance companies may be lost for the lack of an accurate official report. It is always recommended by experienced drivers in Taiwan to take immediate pictures of an accident scene in case that a party or parties leave the scene or move their vehicle(s) without police permission. It is the experience of many road users that during minor accidents, sometimes even serious, drivers or riders may hit and run. Witnesses may leave the scene too, so be sure to take details quickly of any potential witnesses. We also adivise drivers to carry cameras which can be used to collect evidence before it potentially leaves the scene.

If you are involved in an accident, it is wise to refrain from hurriedly signing paperwork or statements that you may not fully understand. All foreigners in Taiwan are entitled to work with a special foreign affairs police officer that will assist in translating, interpreting and explaining the situation. You do not have to sign or provide a statement immediately and you may receive advice from a lawyer.

If you are a witness to an accident, then you must provide appropriate identification papers to the police with any given statement. You do not have to provide identification to non official persons, and you do not need enter into any financial settlement outside of official presence.

If you believe you are a victim of a traffic accident, offense or violation, you may report the responsible party or parties to the police. After making an accident or criminal report to the police which involves you, they should ALWAYS provide you with an official record of it. An official record which can include witnesses can be used to claim compensation from either the party responsible or from one’s own insurance company. Settlements made outside police presence may be considered illegal or invalid and may not always be successful. It is worth noting that the full extent of personal or property damages are not always immediately apparent, and that further investigation by a doctor or qualified technician may first be necessary to make an accurate and full assessment of both injuries and or vehicles damage.

To report dangerous driving or dangerous road conditions immediately call 110 to speak to the police. Be prepared to tell them the location and type of danger or accident, including road name, address or distance marker on highways and any relevant vehicle registration numbers, otherwise contact other relevant emergency services.