Taipei: The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) on Wednesday announced an amendment to traffic regulations that will scrap a NT$500 (US$15.95) fine for pedestrians who enter a crosswalk during a flashing green light, effective in April. Under current regulations, pedestrians who have not yet stepped onto the road when the light begins flashing green are “prohibited” from entering the crosswalk, a rule that has led to some pedestrians being fined for jaywalking, the ministry said.

According to Focus Taiwan, following the amendment, the regulation will instead advise pedestrians to “avoid” entering the crosswalk during a flashing green light, effectively removing the basis for penalties. The MOTC said the flashing green signal is not intended to urge pedestrians to “cross quickly,” but rather to remind them to “stop walking,” adding that the revision is aimed at improving pedestrian safety, particularly for seniors.