Kaohsiung motorcyclist enters light rail track, causing train stop and minor injuries

A motorcyclist in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, has been charged with endangering transport safety and fined after illegally entering a light rail track, causing a train to make an emergency stop. The incident occurred on the afternoon of July 10.

The 45-year-old rider, identified by the surname Yan, was traveling east on Jiuxing Road. While attempting to turn right at the intersection of Zhongshan 3rd Road and Kaixuan 4th Road, he entered the light rail tracks before the right-turn signal had activated. A light rail train approaching from Kaixuan Station was forced to brake suddenly, causing Yan to fall. His motorcycle did not directly collide with the train, but he sustained a friction abrasion to his right arm as he fell.

Yan declined medical attention, reporting only minor injuries. Both drivers tested negative for alcohol. The light rail train was carrying passengers, none of whom were injured, and resumed its service approximately 20 minutes after the incident. Police are investigating the cause of the accident. The rider faces up to two years in prison, detention, or a fine of up to 200,000 New Taiwan dollars for endangering transport safety. He will also receive a fine of NT$600 to NT$1,800 for the traffic violation.