A tragic road accident in Taipei on Tuesday has sparked outrage and renewed calls for tighter regulation of private ambulance services, after an unlicensed driver fatally struck a 60-year-old scooter rider while running a red light.
The incident occurred at approximately 2:30 p.m. in Taipei’s Songshan District, at the intersection of Fujin Street and Sanmin Road. The scooter rider, surnamed Huang (黃), was riding straight through a green light when a private ambulance, allegedly transporting a patient in a non-emergency situation, ignored the red light and collided with the scooter, dragging the victim under the vehicle.
Rescue personnel arriving on scene found Huang with no signs of life. Despite emergency medical efforts, he was pronounced dead at the hospital at 3:13 p.m.
The ambulance driver, a 23-year-old man surnamed Lu (盧), was found not to be under the influence of alcohol, but he was driving without a valid license — a serious violation that carries criminal liability under Taiwan’s Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act.
🚨 Ambulance Misuse and Licensing Failures
According to preliminary findings, the ambulance involved was part of a privately-operated emergency transport company, which is under review for failing to adequately vet its drivers. It remains unclear how Lu came to operate the vehicle, and investigators are now probing the company’s recruitment and oversight procedures.
The patient being transported, a man surnamed Lee (李), suffered only minor injuries, including abrasions to his hands, and was transferred to another hospital.
This incident has triggered a public outcry over safety standards and operational oversight in Taiwan’s private ambulance sector — a growing industry often tasked with transporting non-critical patients between facilities or homes.
🧠 Broader Implications: Taiwan’s Private Ambulance Industry Under Scrutiny
In Taiwan, many hospitals contract private companies to handle overflow or non-emergency transport. However, the sector is lightly regulated, with inconsistent vetting and training of staff. Unlicensed drivers, as seen in this case, expose both patients and the general public to severe safety risks.
Experts have long warned that the lack of oversight, including minimal background checks, poor training, and insufficient equipment in some private ambulances, could lead to fatal outcomes. Calls are growing for the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications to audit existing operators and introduce stricter licensing mechanisms.
In addition, Taipei city officials confirmed they are investigating whether the ambulance was using sirens or flashing lights at the time of the crash — as such signals are only permitted in true emergencies. If not, the driver may face aggravated charges for reckless driving causing death.
Legal Ramifications
Under Article 185-3 of Taiwan’s Criminal Code, causing death by negligent driving — particularly when unlicensed — can lead to imprisonment of up to seven years. Prosecutors are expected to file charges once the investigation concludes.
The ambulance company may also face administrative penalties, including revocation of its operating license and civil liability to the victim’s family.
❓FAQs
Who was involved in the Taipei ambulance crash?
A 23-year-old unlicensed driver surnamed Lu drove a private ambulance that struck and killed a 60-year-old scooter rider surnamed Huang.
Was the ambulance responding to an emergency?
Authorities have not confirmed whether the ambulance was in emergency mode. It is under investigation whether sirens or lights were used lawfully.
Is it legal to drive an ambulance without a license in Taiwan?
No. Driving any vehicle without a valid license is illegal and considered a criminal offense, especially in cases involving public transportation or emergency vehicles.
What penalties could the driver face?
If convicted, the driver could face up to seven years in prison for causing death by negligent driving while unlicensed.
What is being done to help the victim’s family?
Legal experts say the family may file civil claims against both the driver and the ambulance company. Taipei city officials have pledged full support during the investigation.
