"Falling After Being Startled by a Car"... Disputes Over 'Non-Contact Accidents' Spread

As the vehicle made a right turn and entered the alley, an elderly person crossing the street came into view. Although the vehicle stopped, the elderly person was startled by the approaching car and fell. This is a non-contact traffic accident. To what extent is the driver at fault?

[Video source=BobaeDream]

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A non-contact traffic accident refers to an incident where, even without physical collision, a specific action by the accident vehicle causes damage to a non-contact vehicle or pedestrian. Examples include hitting a structure while avoiding a lane-changing vehicle, or pedestrians falling after being startled by vehicle lights or horns. Leaving the scene can result in aggravated punishment for hit-and-run.

Recently, a post titled "Inquiry about a non-contact accident in an alley" along with a video posted on an online community ignited controversy over non-contact traffic accidents. According to the video, the accident that occurred on the 1st involved a car driving down a narrow downhill road within an apartment complex, stopping close to a pedestrian. The pedestrian, startled by the car, hurried and tripped.

The author, Mr. A, explained, "There was a non-contact accident while driving in the alley," adding, "I was driving at less than 30 km/h and stopped, but the pedestrian said they fell while trying to avoid my car."

He continued, "The pedestrian suffered a fracture from the fall and needs surgery, and they are asking to file an insurance claim, but is the driver automatically the offender?" expressing his frustration.

The location is reported to be near an apartment complex in Jeongneung-dong, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul. Mr. A claimed, "I did not honk the horn." The crosswalk markings were heavily faded and hard to see.

The accident sparked heated debate online. Netizens commented, "The driver will definitely be found at fault. They should have reduced speed from far away, but it seems they only slowed down at the last moment," "From the pedestrian's perspective, it’s understandable to be startled," and "It’s unfortunate, but please drive safely next time." On the other hand, some argued, "Non-contact accidents have a high potential for abuse."

Non-contact traffic accidents are judged based on the specific circumstances of each case. Therefore, the scope of driver responsibility is often debated. Recently, with the increase of closed-circuit television (CCTV) and vehicle black boxes, cases proving the fault of the offending vehicle in non-contact accidents are on the rise.

If a driver involved in a non-contact accident leaves the scene without providing any aid, they may face aggravated penalties for hit-and-run.

Experts advise that if there is any indication of contributing to the cause of a non-contact accident, related evidence such as CCTV footage should be collected to examine the causal relationship.

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