January Traffic Fatalities Rise Nearly 10%, New Taipei City Sees Most Increase

The Ministry of Transportation reported that in January of 2026 (115年), traffic fatalities (A30 deaths, occurring within 30 days of an accident) reached 264. While this is a decrease of 12 deaths compared to 2023 (112年), it represents a 9.5% increase of 23 deaths year-on-year. The report noted an increase in fatalities among motorcyclists, the elderly, drunk driving incidents, and pedestrians, identifying this as a "warning sign" for the ministry. Regarding A1 fatalities (deaths within 24 hours), there were 114 overall and 18 pedestrian deaths in February, both showing decreases compared to 2023 and 2025. This indicates a continued downward trend in overall traffic safety. However, New Taipei City reported 44 total traffic deaths in January, an increase of 31 compared to the previous year, and an increase of 4 pedestrian deaths, marking the highest increase among all cities. Nationally, motorcycle fatalities in January were 158, up 5 from the previous year, with New Taipei City accounting for 17 of these. Elderly fatalities were 111, up 2 nationally, with New Taipei City contributing 10. An analysis of New Taipei City's January fatalities revealed common factors in motorcycle accidents included failing to maintain safe distances and driver distraction. In response to these A1 data trends, an emergency meeting was held with New Taipei City officials to discuss countermeasures, focusing initially on speed management. Measures like adjusting flashing signals where red/yellow/green lights were previously used at night are being implemented to control the situation.