August 25, 2025 | Taichung, Taiwan
The number of foreign workers in Taiwan has surpassed 800,000, and with many relying on public transportation and motorcycles, traffic safety has become a growing concern. According to the Taichung City Police Traffic Brigade, more than 1,000 traffic accidents involving migrant workers were recorded from January to July this year.
Data shows that the most common causes included inattentive driving (288 cases), failing to slow down when required (188 cases), and not maintaining safe distances (117 cases). Motorcycles remain the primary vehicles involved in these incidents, followed by small electric scooters.
To address this issue, the Taichung City Police Department has increased outreach efforts. Over the past two years, officers have organized 44 road safety awareness events to educate migrant workers about traffic rules. In the first half of 2025 alone, they conducted 19 training sessions reaching about 450 workers, while 25 similar activities were held last year involving approximately 600 participants.
These initiatives are being carried out in collaboration with the Highway Bureau Taichung District Office and local employers. Under the theme “Defensive Driving, Respect for Road Rights,” the programs include traffic safety videos, on-site simulations, and interactive activities. For example, Taichung Jiaotong University developed unique training experiences, such as practicing right-of-way at unsigned intersections, wearing “drunk driving simulation” goggles, and defensive motorcycle riding exercises.
Officers also emphasized the proper use of micro electric two-wheelers, popular among workers for commuting and errands. To improve compliance, they promoted seven key safety rules in multiple languages, covering helmet use, speed limits (25 km/h maximum), passenger restrictions, and insurance requirements.
Liu Yongchang, captain of the Taichung City Traffic Police, said authorities will continue conducting education programs at factories, dormitories, and other gathering points for migrant workers. “Foreign workers are an important part of our community. Helping them stay safe on the roads protects not only their well-being but also overall traffic safety,” he noted.
