Improper lane change by semi-trailer truck causes 3-vehicle crash on National Freeway 1 in Linkou

A multi-vehicle accident on Taiwan's National Freeway 1 in Linkou resulted in a three-car pile-up late Wednesday night. The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on the southbound lanes near kilometer 39.1.

Authorities reported that a 52-year-old male driver of a semi-trailer truck allegedly made an unsafe lane change. This maneuver led to a collision with a passenger car in the middle lane, driven by a 37-year-old woman. The impact caused the truck to lose control, subsequently hitting another passenger car in the inner lane, driven by a 39-year-old man.

Despite the severity of the chain-reaction collision, all individuals involved escaped unharmed. Police confirmed that breathalyzer tests administered to all drivers returned zero blood alcohol content. The exact cause of the accident is under further investigation by the authorities.

Police took the opportunity to remind drivers about safe driving practices, emphasizing the importance of maintaining safe distances when changing lanes. They advised drivers to check mirrors, signal their intentions, and physically turn their heads to confirm the lane is clear before changing, rather than immediately swerving after activating a turn signal. The police also reiterated the critical importance of wearing seatbelts for all occupants, stressing that it is a life-saving tool in emergencies, not just a legal requirement.