Retaliatory Driving Acts Are Subject to Criminal Penalties
Due to the impact, the motorcycle rider fell, and some protective gear rolled onto the road. / Photo by Internet Community Capture
[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Juhyung] Controversy has erupted after a video showing a car chasing a motorcycle onto the sidewalk and ramming it from behind in an act of retaliatory driving was released. Although it is reported that the motorcycle rider initially provoked the car driver, criticism has arisen emphasizing that retaliatory driving is a serious crime.
On the 6th, a dashcam video from a car was posted on various online communities. The video was accompanied by the explanation, "Retaliation because the motorcycle rider cursed and ran away," capturing the scene where the car chases the motorcycle rider onto the sidewalk.
In the video, when the car hits the motorcycle from behind, the motorcycle rider falls from the impact. The protective gear worn by the rider falls off the sidewalk and onto the lane. It has not been clearly reported whether the motorcycle rider sustained any injuries from the accident.
Opinions among netizens who watched the video were divided. Some supported the car driver, saying "It feels satisfying." They argued that the motorcycle rider seemed to be at fault for provoking the driver first, and criticized that recently, delivery riders and other motorcycle drivers have been driving too recklessly.
A video showing a car driver chasing a motorcycle onto the sidewalk and ramming into it. / Photo by Internet Community
On the other hand, other netizens condemned the car driver, stating, "Retaliatory driving is a clear crime." They criticized, saying, "Is it reasonable to chase someone onto the sidewalk and ram them on the road? That has gone beyond acceptable limits," and "This goes beyond retaliatory driving; it’s attempted murder level."
Retaliatory driving is subject to criminal punishment. However, the applicable crimes and severity of penalties may vary depending on the situation.
Retaliatory driving that does not involve contact with the other vehicle can be punished under Article 284 (Special Threats) of the Criminal Act, with imprisonment of up to 7 years or a fine of up to 10 million won.
If the retaliatory driving causes a collision resulting in damage to the other vehicle, Article 369 (Special Property Damage) of the Criminal Act applies, punishable by imprisonment of up to 5 years or a fine of up to 10 million won.
If the collision causes injury to the driver or passengers of the other vehicle, it falls under Article 258-2 (Special Injury) of the Criminal Act. If the victim suffers severe injuries that threaten their life due to the accident, the offender can be sentenced to imprisonment ranging from 2 to 20 years.
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