Bicycle DUI Also Fined; Kaohsiung Branch Recovers Arrears and Refers for Addiction Treatment

(Central News Agency reporter Hong Xueguang, Kaohsiung, 10th) A man surnamed Gao, living in Kaohsiung's Niaosong District, was stopped by police in the early morning of 2022 while riding a bicycle home, just 700 meters from his house. His alcohol concentration exceeded the legal limit, and he was fined NT$800 under the pre-amendment regulations. In 2024, Gao was again caught by police for riding a scooter under the influence in front of his home, this time fined NT$90,000 and had his driver's license revoked.

As Gao had been delinquent in paying the fines, the case was referred to the Administrative Enforcement Agency, Kaohsiung Branch, for compulsory execution in 2025. Enforcement officers initially attempted to seize his deposits and wages but found nothing. They then conducted multiple field visits to his different residences. Although they did not meet Gao in person, the clerk left a notice asking him to contact the branch. Eventually, Gao called to express his willingness to pay.

The Kaohsiung Branch stated today that when Gao came to the branch to pay as agreed, enforcement officers advised him to undergo alcohol addiction treatment. Feeling the officers' concern, Gao agreed. The branch immediately used the "Alcohol Prevention Center Addiction Treatment Referral Platform," established by the Administrative Enforcement Agency and the Ministry of Health and Welfare in commission with Mackay Memorial Hospital, to complete the referral to professional medical care, helping him solve his life problems thoroughly.

The Kaohsiung Branch reminded the public that many people mistakenly believe that riding a bicycle under the influence is not penalized. However, according to Article 73, Paragraph 2 of the current Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act, drivers of slow vehicles (including bicycles, micro electric two-wheelers, etc.) whose alcohol concentration exceeds the standard will be fined between NT$1,200 and NT$2,400. If they refuse to take a breathalyzer test, the fine increases to NT$4,800.

Furthermore, micro electric two-wheelers with green license plates are classified as motor vehicles. If a breathalyzer test shows an alcohol concentration of 0.25 milligrams per liter or higher, the driver will be charged with a public endangerment offense and referred to the prosecutor's office. (Editor: Zhang Mingkun) 1150610