Family allowed to join lawsuit over conscript's highway death after driver allegedly abandoned him

A Taiwanese court has granted the victim's family permission to participate in the ongoing lawsuit against a taxi driver accused of abandoning a conscripted service man, leading to his death. The conscript, identified as a political science and business administration graduate, was allegedly left on a highway by driver Lin Yu-chun and subsequently run over by four cars.

Prosecutors had previously charged Lin with abandonment resulting in death. The case is set to be heard by a jury. The family's participation in the lawsuit, facilitated by a system enacted in 2020, allows them to review case evidence and present their opinions during proceedings, aiming to safeguard their rights.

The incident occurred when the 25-year-old conscript, Wen, hailed a ride-sharing service after visiting a friend. The driver, Lin, reportedly stopped the car on the highway after Wen collapsed in the back seat. Lin then allegedly opened the door, ordered Wen out, and drove away, leaving him on the road where he was hit by multiple vehicles. Prosecutors argue Lin had a duty of care and abandoned Wen, while the defense claims it was negligent homicide. The family is pushing for a murder charge, citing evidence of Wen being dragged.