NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) made a solemn visit Tuesday (May 20) to Sanxia (三峽), a district in Taiwan's most populous municipality, where a devastating traffic accident has left the community reeling. The tragedy unfolded Monday afternoon when a 78-year-old driver ran a red light outside Bai-Da Elementary School (北大國小), killing three pedestrians and injuring 12 others in one of the area's deadliest recent traffic incidents.
During his hospital visit, Mayor Hou expressed gratitude to medical personnel working tirelessly to treat the injured. The former police officer-turned-politician pledged New Taipei City's unwavering commitment to support affected families with both immediate assistance and long-term resources. Hou also announced that city officials would coordinate with judicial authorities to pursue compensation claims against the elderly driver, ensuring victims receive financial redress while navigating their physical and emotional recovery.
Initial site inspections revealed that safety infrastructure near the school — including crosswalk signals and road markings — had been functioning correctly at the time of the crash. Mayor Hou proposed designating the area as a "pedestrian priority zone" that would impose reduced speed limits on all vehicles. The mayor, addressing Taiwan's rapidly aging demographics, called for a comprehensive review of driver's license renewal procedures for elderly citizens. He emphasized that Taiwan's evolution into what experts classify as a "super-aged society" demands updated evaluation methods, including specialized courses and testing protocols for older drivers.
As investigators continue piecing together the exact circumstances of the tragedy, Sanxia residents have begun organizing community forums focused on school zone safety. Local parent associations are calling for immediate protective measures around educational facilities throughout New Taipei City. The accident has catalyzed broader public discussions about Taiwan's approach to elderly mobility and transportation safety, with advocacy groups pushing for policy reforms that balance seniors' independence with public safety concerns. ◼
