【Kaohsiung News】According to statistical analysis, traffic accident incidence in Kaohsiung City tends to be slightly higher in the fourth quarter each year compared with other periods. To proactively address this trend, the Kaohsiung City Government has convened a cross-departmental traffic accident prevention meeting chaired by the Deputy Secretary-General. Focusing on senior citizens, pedestrians, and high-risk traffic violations, the City has launched intensified accident prevention measures. A total of 12 municipal agencies, including the Transportation Bureau, Police Department, and Public Works Bureau, have been coordinated to comprehensively accelerate implementation under three key strategies—engineering improvements, education and outreach, and targeted enforcement—with the objective of reducing accident risks during this period.
In terms of engineering measures, the Transportation Bureau and the Public Works Bureau continue to advance safety improvements at intersections and road segments. This year, works have been completed at 55 locations with dedicated left-turn lanes, 31 marked sidewalk installations, 1 speed table, 27 setback pedestrian crossings, and 25 pedestrian-exclusive signal phases. In addition, community-based mini roundabouts with pavement markings and sidewalk improvements totaling 6 kilometers have been completed. Furthermore, in response to a higher incidence of nighttime pedestrian accidents, lighting improvements have been carried out along 28 road segments. By reducing vehicle speeds and enhancing visibility, these measures aim to create a safer and more pedestrian-friendly walking environment.
With respect to public outreach, as accidents involving senior citizens most frequently occur during early morning and nighttime hours and are commonly concentrated around parks, schools, and unsignalized intersections, the Civil Affairs Bureau, Education Bureau, Social Affairs Bureau, and district offices have strengthened traffic safety promotion efforts at these locations. Through the use of accident videos and graphic materials, continuous outreach is being conducted at neighborhood activity centers, campuses, health centers, and senior gathering spots to reinforce key concepts such as “vehicles must yield to pedestrians” and “pedestrians should use zebra crossings.” These close-to-community approaches are intended to further enhance public awareness of traffic safety.
On the enforcement front, the Police Department will intensify enforcement actions targeting four major high-risk violations: running red lights, speeding, failure to yield to pedestrians, and drunk driving. Police visibility will be increased in accident-prone areas as well as during early morning and nighttime periods to effectively deter high-risk behaviors. The City Government has also strengthened enforcement against motorcycle violations involving the improper occupation of pedestrian spaces, with close coordination between police and transportation authorities to correct unsafe road-use practices.
Finally, the Transportation Bureau reminds the public that year-end banquets and social gatherings are approaching. Those who consume alcohol are strongly urged to use public transportation or designated driver services and to never drive under the influence, in order to avoid endangering themselves and others. Traffic safety requires joint efforts from both the government and citizens. “Slow down, yield, and stay alert” remains the simplest and most effective way to protect lives. The Kaohsiung City Government will continue to make every effort to reduce accident risks and safeguard public safety.
