MIAOLI COUNTY: A 25-year-old learner driver accidentally crashed his vehicle into the front of a 7-Eleven convenience store in Miaoli County, Taiwan, after mistaking the accelerator for the brake pedal, local authorities reported. The incident occurred as the man, surnamed Chiu, was practicing driving with his mother in Toufen City.

According to Focus Taiwan, the incident unfolded around 3 p.m. on Sunday when Chiu attempted to park the car in the store's lot on Yongzhen Road. Instead of stopping, the car surged forward, shattering the store's front glass windows and sending debris into the indoor seating area and across product displays. Fortunately, there were no injuries as the seating area was unoccupied at the time of the crash.

Police at the scene confirmed that Chiu was not under the influence of alcohol, with test results returning negative. However, he was fined NT$18,000 (approximately US$549) for driving without a license. Authorities stated that Chiu is also responsible for covering the costs of the damages inflicted upon the store.

In Taiwan, individuals learning to drive are not issued learner's permits. Instead, aspiring drivers must enroll in driving schools, where they practice specific skills on test courses and drive on designated routes under the supervision of a licensed instructor. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper driving education and supervision.