Motorcycle Crash on Southern Cross-Island Highway Leaves Couple Critically Injured

A severe motorcycle accident on the Southern Cross-Island Highway in Taitung County has left a local couple in critical condition, highlighting the persistent dangers of this vital transportation artery. The incident, which occurred around 7 p.m. on May 20, 2026, involved a motorcycle ridden by a couple in their 50s colliding with a parked engineering vehicle near the Dawu section of Highway 9. The impact was so forceful that both riders were thrown from the vehicle and found to be without vital signs at the scene, prompting an immediate and urgent rescue operation.

Emergency services, including units from Dawu, Daxi, and Dari fire stations, responded swiftly to the distress call. Upon arrival, firefighters confirmed the critical state of the two individuals, who were unconscious and showed no signs of life. They immediately commenced life-saving efforts before transporting the male rider to Taitung Mackay Memorial Hospital and the female rider to the Dawu emergency station for intensive care. The community of Dawu village, where the couple resided, has been deeply shaken and saddened by the news, underscoring the close-knit nature of the area and the impact of such tragedies on local residents.

While the immediate focus is on the critical condition of the couple and the ongoing rescue efforts, the accident also brings renewed attention to road safety on the Southern Cross-Island Highway. The precise cause of the collision remains under investigation by the police, who have secured the scene for evidence collection. Factors such as road conditions, visibility, and the placement of the parked vehicle will be crucial in determining fault and preventing future occurrences. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued vigilance and adherence to traffic safety regulations on this scenic but often hazardous route.