Taxi driver watches TV while driving, gets into an argument and loses his belongings: How should we view passenger safety and compensation?

News Summary

According to a SET News video, a passenger who took a taxi after drinking alleged that the driver was watching a short drama while driving. An argument ensued, and the passenger was then left on the expressway. The report raises questions about driver focus, the safety of the drop-off location, and the appropriateness of the transportation service. The above are the allegations presented in the report. The actual use of the device, the conversation between the two parties, and the drop-off process should be confirmed with complete video footage and investigation results. It is inappropriate to determine all illegal acts based solely on fragmentary footage.

Lawyer's Explanation

Distracted driving in a taxi and leaving passengers in dangerous locations are two separate issues that must be examined. Article 31-1 of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act stipulates penalties for using handheld devices while driving or engaging in unsafe behavior; however, for fixed screens, the decision must be based on actual operation, whether it impedes safe driving, and other traffic regulations. It cannot be assumed that fixing the phone automatically makes it legal. In the event of a conflict, the driver must ensure safety, and passengers should avoid pulling or interfering with the driver while the vehicle is in motion.

deal withPassenger safety and damage compensationFirst, save your itinerary, payment details, vehicle number, driving footage, and conversation records. Then, distinguish between traffic complaints, transportation contracts, and tort liability. Even if a criminal case is not established, it does not mean the service provider is necessarily without civil liability; however, claims for additional fares, medical expenses, or other damages still require proof of actual expenses, damages, and causation. Feeling afraid does not guarantee compensation for emotional distress. If left in a dangerous area with heavy traffic, contact the police for assistance to avoid further exposure to danger while gathering evidence.

---

Fuda Law Firm
Address: 17th Floor, No. 180, Section 2, Dunhua South Road, Da'an District, Taipei Taiwan 106
Tel:02-7709-3611
Line：@fdlaw
Facebook:FDLAW
website:https://fdlaw.com.tw/
e-mail:info@fdlaw.com.tw