By KHT Staff
KAOHSIUNG — A Kaohsiung court has overturned a NT$600 traffic fine issued to a rental car driver, ruling that misleading road markings contributed to the alleged violation.
The driver, surnamed Hsing (阿興), was fined after being reported for driving straight through a right-turn-only lane at the intersection of Jhonghua 1st Road (中華一路) and Meishu North 3rd Road (美術北三路). Police reviewed footage, and the Transportation Bureau issued a citation under the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act.
Hsing argued that the lane design was flawed, noting that drivers must first continue straight for 10 to 15 meters before actually turning right into a side street. He also pointed out that nearby buses stop and proceed straight, further confusing motorists.
After reviewing video evidence and street imagery, the court agreed that the road layout was inconsistent with standard right-turn lane expectations. The judge said the markings could reasonably mislead drivers and ruled that Hsing acted without intent or negligence.
The court cited principles of administrative fairness and legal certainty, concluding that authorities should not penalize drivers when signage itself is confusing. The original fine was formally revoked.
