DistantNews
Support us
๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ Taiwan /Crime & Justice

Runaway truck wheel catches fire, sparks panic on Taiwan freeway

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • A large truck's rear wheel detached and caught fire while driving on Taiwan's National Freeway No. 74.
  • The runaway wheel, described as a "super fire wheel," rolled at high speed along the guardrail, causing alarm among other drivers.
  • Police responded to the incident, and the truck driver faces a fine for the detached wheel.

A dramatic scene unfolded on Taiwan's National Freeway No. 74 when a large truck's left rear wheel detached and began rolling uncontrollably, even igniting into flames. The runaway tire, likened to a "super fire wheel," careened along the inner guardrail at high speed, creating a terrifying spectacle for other motorists. The incident occurred around noon, with the massive tire bouncing and swerving across the lanes, prompting drivers to slow down and swerve to avoid a collision. Fortunately, no other vehicles were involved, and no one was injured. Police were dispatched to the scene, where they found the truck had already been moved to a side road. The driver, identified by the surname Zhu, is now subject to a fine of NT$3,000 to NT$6,000 for the wheel detachment, according to traffic regulations. Authorities reminded drivers to thoroughly inspect their vehicles before driving to ensure safety.

Oh my god, it's truly a super fire wheel.

โ€” NetizenA social media user's reaction to the runaway tire.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.