Traffic Light Rules in Taiwan Give Mixed Signals

Why It Matters

Clarifying and standardizing pedestrian signals aims to reduce risky crossings and improve road safety, lowering accident risk and public confusion while aligning enforcement and signage across jurisdictions. Better signals could also help repair Taiwan’s safety reputation for residents and visitors, with potential impacts on liability and municipal traffic planning.

Summary

Taiwan is changing its pedestrian traffic signals after widespread confusion over a running green figure that flashes in the final seconds of the walk phase. Many pedestrians interpret the running figure as a cue to hurry across, though it is intended as a warning not to start crossing; enforcement fines for crossing during the running phase have been dropped. The government will replace the running man with a flashing figure and standardize pedestrian light designs nationwide, addressing inconsistent signals used by cities and counties. The move follows scrutiny of Taiwan’s pedestrian safety since a 2022 CNN report criticized conditions for walkers.

Original Description

If you saw a “Little Green Man” running signal, would you start running too?

Taiwan’s Ministry of Transportation and Communications recently clarified that people should not start crossing the street once the pedestrian signal – or the “Little Green Man” –starts flashing.

Crossing when the figure is running will no longer be considered jaywalking, and the US$15 fine has been removed. However, pedestrians are still advised to wait for the next green light if possible.

Officials say the update is meant to improve pedestrian safety, as the government continues efforts to address road safety concerns.

Reporter: Tiffany Wong

Videographer: Justin Wu

Video Editor: Alison Nguyen

#TaiwanPlusNews #Taiwan #Traffic #Pedestrians

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