While the number of bicycle riders is on the rise here in Taiwan, liability in bike accidents is still a legal gray area, leading to many fierce disputes. Now a KMT lawmaker has proposed to solve the issue through legislative amendment, which is expected to be completed within three months.

As the number of cyclists rises, so does the number of accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians.

While the parties involved in car and moped accidents can apply to have cases settled by the local Traffic Accident Arbitration Commission, the same does not apply to cyclists.

One legislator is calling for relevant laws to be amended within the next three months to protect cyclists.

When bicycle accidents occur, police officers called to the scene are responsible for preliminary analysis to determine fault and presiding over private negotiations.

If the two parties cannot come to an agreement, their only recourse is a civil suit. Last year, 626 bicycle accidents were reported in Taipei City, or 52 per month.

140 deaths per month resulting from bicycle accidents were also reported island-wide last year.

In a recent survey, more than 50% of respondents indicated that they were in support of proposed amendments.

According to the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, expanding the scope of relevant vehicular accident laws shouldn't be a problem.

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