Taiwan Man Pays Off $110,000 in Traffic Fines After Mother Acts as Guarantor

Authorities in Taiwan have successfully collected over $110,000 in unpaid traffic fines and fees from a 28-year-old man who had accumulated multiple violations, including driving without a license and riding with a drunk driver. The man's mother stepped in to serve as guarantor, enabling him to arrange a payment plan for the substantial debt. The Executive Agency of the Ministry of Justice's Chiayi Branch reported that the man's violations spanned various offenses, including unpaid highway maintenance fees and failure to secure mandatory vehicle liability insurance. He was repeatedly caught driving without a license, changing lanes erratically, and being a passenger in a vehicle operated by an intoxicated driver. The agency found that the man had no assets that could be seized and was employed as a temporary worker, making wage garnishment impossible. After receiving a notice to fulfill his obligations, his mother intervened, accompanying him to the branch to arrange the installment payments. She stated that citizens must be held accountable for breaking the law and voluntarily assumed responsibility for her son's debt. The Chiayi Branch agreed to the payment plan, with monthly installments of $4,000 starting in November 2024. Under his mother's supervision, the man has now cleared his entire outstanding debt. The Chiayi Branch took the opportunity to remind the public about the legal responsibilities associated with riding with drunk drivers, in addition to the strict prohibition of driving under the influence.