SUV Blocks Ambulance in Taichung, Police: Up to $30,000 Fine and License Revocation

(Central News Agency reporter Chao Li-yan, Taichung, June 16) Near Alley 20, Zhongzhen Road, Shalu District, Taichung City, an ambulance repeatedly sounded its siren recently, but the SUV ahead remained unmoved. Police announced today that the vehicle indeed failed to yield to the ambulance, and under the law, the driver could face a maximum fine of NT$30,000, revocation of the driver’s license, and suspension of the vehicle registration.

At 7:37 a.m. on the 15th, near Alley 20, Zhongzhen Road in Taichung’s Shalu District, an SUV stopped at a red light allegedly blocked an ambulance behind it. A passing motorcyclist witnessing the scene got off to assist with traffic direction, but the SUV still did not yield, leaving the ambulance stuck behind. A video of the incident was uploaded online, with one netizen commenting, 'How hard is it to let an ambulance pass?'—sparking widespread discussion.

Some questioned whether the SUV driver had loud music playing inside, while others asked why the ambulance didn’t overtake in the opposite lane. However, some citizens pointed out that overtaking against traffic at intersections is prone to accidents and is prohibited by regulations—even with on-site guidance.

The Qingshui Police Substation released a statement today, confirming after reviewing surveillance footage that the passenger vehicle indeed failed to immediately yield to the ambulance. Although a civilian directed traffic at the scene, the driver did not comply. According to the Road Traffic Management Penalty Act, the driver could be fined between NT$6,000 and NT$30,000, have their driver’s license revoked, and the vehicle’s registration suspended for six months.

Police urge all drivers and pedestrians to immediately yield upon hearing an ambulance siren to ensure emergency access remains unobstructed. No formal public complaint has been received yet. However, if citizens witness traffic violations, they may file a report with the police by submitting evidence such as video footage, as stipulated in the Road Traffic Management Penalty Act. (Editor: Chen Jen-hua) 1150616

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