For US citizens planning a trip to Taiwan, understanding local road conditions, traffic regulations, and transportation options is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. This guide provides essential information to help you navigate Taiwan’s roads and public transport systems.
Road Conditions and Safety Tips for Travelers
Generally, road conditions and traffic safety in Taiwan’s cities and major highways are well-maintained. However, major cities often experience heavy traffic congestion, particularly in metropolitan areas like Taipei. It’s important to be aware of the high volume of scooters and motorcycles that frequently weave in and out of traffic.
Alt: Numerous scooters navigating crowded city streets in Taipei, Taiwan.
Safety Recommendations:
- Pedestrian Awareness: Exercise caution when crossing streets as many drivers may not yield to pedestrians.
- Scooter Awareness: Be especially alert for scooters when exiting public buses or cars.
- Mountain Roads: Drive cautiously on mountain roads, which are typically narrow, winding, and may become impassable after heavy rains. The central cross-island highway, for example, can have poor visibility and challenging conditions.
Understanding Taiwan’s Traffic Laws
Adhering to Taiwan’s traffic laws is essential for your safety and to avoid penalties.
Key Traffic Laws:
- Seatbelts: All vehicle occupants, including taxi passengers, are required to wear seatbelts.
- Vehicle Exit Safety: Before opening a vehicle door, ensure no scooters, bicycles, or other vehicles are approaching from behind. Failure to do so can result in liability for any resulting injuries or damages.
- Turning on Red: Right turns on red traffic signals are prohibited unless otherwise indicated.
- Mobile Phone Use: Using a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free kit is illegal.
- Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers in Taiwan is 15 mg per 100 ml of blood (0.03% BAC), and this limit is strictly enforced.
Alt: Police officer administering a breathalyzer test to a driver during a traffic stop in Taiwan.
Important Documents: Carrying proof of car insurance and vehicle ownership is advisable.
Traffic Violations: On-the-spot fines are common for minor traffic offenses, and the amount is fixed for each offense. You will be informed of where and when to pay the fines. More serious offenses may result in a court appearance.
Standard International Driving Laws: While standard international driving laws generally apply, keep in mind these exceptions:
- Warning Triangle: You must carry a warning triangle in your car for use in case of a breakdown or accident.
- Red Light Running: Many drivers may run red lights, particularly immediately after they change. Remain vigilant.
Emergency Procedures in Taiwan
In case of an emergency:
- Car Trouble: If you experience car trouble, call the number provided on your rental documents or attached to the car’s windscreen.
- Accidents: In the event of an accident, call the police at “110” and medical assistance at “119.” Provide all essential information, including the type of accident, vehicle details, and any injuries or fatalities. Contact your insurance company immediately after.
- Police Report: A police report is required for insurance claims. While waiting for the police, document the scene by taking photographs and gathering names, addresses, and phone numbers of any witnesses. Do not move the vehicles unless necessary for safety reasons.
- Alcohol Test: Expect the police to administer an alcohol test to all parties involved in the accident as standard procedure.
- Motor Scooter Safety: When riding a motor scooter, always wear a helmet.
Alt: A person riding a scooter in Taipei wearing a safety helmet.
Public Transportation Options for US Citizens
Taiwan offers cheap, convenient, and generally safe public transportation. Uber is also widely available. Be aware that taxis and buses may swerve to pick up passengers with little regard for other vehicles.
Further Resources:
- For more information on Taiwan’s driver’s permits, vehicle inspection road tax, and mandatory insurance, contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the United States.
- Refer to the Road Safety page for more information. Also, check Taiwan’s Road Traffic Safety Portal.
Aviation and Maritime Safety for US Travelers
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed Taiwan’s Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Additional information can be found on the FAA’s Safety Assessment Page.
Mariners traveling to Taiwan should consult U.S. maritime advisories and alerts on the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Maritime Security Communications with Industry (MSCI) web portal. Information is also available on the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport website and the U.S. National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Navigational Warnings website.
By understanding these aspects of transportation safety and regulations, US citizens can have a safer and more informed travel experience in Taiwan.
