Law graduate sentenced to 4.5 years for fatal drunk driving crash after reaching NT$12 million settlement

A recent law graduate has been sentenced to four and a half years in prison for causing a fatal drunk driving accident. The incident occurred three years ago when the driver, identified as Cheng Hao-wen (formerly Cheng Chao-yu), lost control of his Mercedes-Benz while exiting the Wufang interchange in Taipei's Wenshan District. His vehicle collided with three other cars, resulting in the death of one driver.

At the time of the accident, Cheng's blood alcohol content was measured at a high 0.83 mg/L. An initial ruling by the Taipei District Court's lay judge division had sentenced him to seven years and six months. However, during the appeal process at the High Court, Cheng reached a settlement with the deceased's family, agreeing to pay NT$12 million (approximately $370,000 USD).

During the court proceedings, Cheng reportedly expressed remorse for his actions on two occasions. The settlement and his expressions of remorse were considered during the sentencing, leading to the reduced sentence of four and a half years. The case highlights the severe consequences of drunk driving, particularly when it results in loss of life.