An electric BMW driven by a 74-year-old man lost control on Nanjing West Road in Taipei on Friday afternoon, swerving onto a sidewalk crowded with scooters and bicycles and injuring a passerby. The incident has raised new concerns about electric vehicle safety and the challenges of driving with advanced automation features.
The crash happened near Lane 167 of Nanjing West Road at approximately 3:00 p.m. when the parked electric vehicle, driven by a man surnamed Tseng, suddenly lurched forward. According to Taipei police, the pedestrian — a woman surnamed Lin — sustained bruises to her shoulder and leg but was fortunately not in a life-threatening condition. Tseng himself was unharmed and showed no signs of intoxication during a subsequent blood alcohol test.
The impact damaged 12 scooters and four bicycles that were neatly parked along the sidewalk. Photographs taken by bystanders after the crash showed a trail of debris and damaged scooters strewn across the street, emphasizing the potential for serious injury.
Investigators Probe Possible Technical Malfunction
Taipei police say they have launched a formal investigation to determine the cause of the sudden acceleration. Officers are working with BMW representatives to examine the vehicle’s onboard computer data — especially its automatic braking and acceleration systems. Given the vehicle’s electric and semi-automated features, officials want to ensure the crash was not caused by a technical fault.
Additionally, questions around elderly drivers’ reaction time and familiarity with new automotive technology are being raised in public discourse. Taiwan, like many aging societies around the world, faces increasing road safety challenges as more seniors drive longer into old age.
Broader Context: Pedestrian Safety and Electric Vehicle Risks
This accident comes at a time when Taipei’s local government is stepping up safety campaigns focused on pedestrians and vulnerable road users. According to Transport Ministry data, pedestrian injuries and fatalities in Taiwan have risen by nearly 3% in the past year. Electric cars, which accelerate more quickly and quietly than their gasoline-powered counterparts, add another layer of complexity to urban safety.
Experts like Professor Chien Yu-hsin of National Taiwan University’s Transportation Research Center highlight that as electric and autonomous driving features become more common, driver training must also evolve. “More people need to understand the instantaneous torque and acceleration of EVs,” Chien said in an interview, warning that cars can surge forward faster than expected.
Moving Forward: What Taipei Can Do
Taipei officials have announced that they will ramp up education campaigns and enhance the use of protective barriers around high-foot-traffic areas. The Ministry of Transportation and Communications also hinted at revising licensing requirements for senior drivers who wish to continue using EVs equipped with automation systems.
Tseng is currently cooperating with the police, and the case is under active review.
❓ FAQs
What happened during the accident on Nanjing West Road?
A BMW electric vehicle driven by a 74-year-old man suddenly accelerated onto the sidewalk, injuring a pedestrian and damaging scooters and bicycles.
Was anyone seriously hurt?
The injured pedestrian sustained bruises to her shoulder and leg and was treated at a nearby hospital. She is in stable condition.
What caused the car to surge forward?
The cause is under investigation. Police are checking the car’s onboard computer to see if a technical issue or driver error caused the crash.
Was the driver under the influence of alcohol?
No. Police conducted a blood alcohol test on the driver and confirmed he was not intoxicated.
What’s being done to prevent similar accidents?
Taipei is reviewing safety measures for sidewalks and enhancing driver education requirements for seniors using electric or automated vehicles.
