Taipei: Unlicensed driving will be treated similarly to drunk driving under a draft amendment being prepared by the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), Minister Chen Shih-kai revealed. The minister emphasized the need for rapid improvements in Taiwan's traffic safety standards, outlining proposed actions on social media.

According to Focus Taiwan, the MOTC has been working on these amendments since last year. The proposed penalties include unlimited fines for repeat offenders and the immediate impounding of vehicles. Additionally, owners who allow unlicensed drivers to use their vehicles will face severe consequences. The MOTC plans to revise the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act with the draft amendments set for submission to the Executive Yuan by the end of June.

Currently, fines for unlicensed motorists and motorcyclists are capped at NT$24,000 (US$800), with the maximum fine and a driving ban imposed for repeat offenses within five years. The ministry also stated that unlicensed drivers or motorcyclists who cause serious injury or death are prohibited from obtaining a license for four years.

Public pressure for improved road safety has risen following several high-profile traffic incidents involving elderly drivers. A 78-year-old unlicensed driver recently hit a pedestrian in Taipei, and days earlier, another elderly driver caused fatalities and injuries outside Bei Da Elementary School in New Taipei's Sanxia District.

Minister Chen clarified that the MOTC will not impose a ban on elderly drivers but aims to enhance their safety on the roads.