Gu Nan drove an ATV alone and overturned and was crushed to death. The ATV owner surnamed Chen paid 3.7 million yuan in compensation and was sentenced to probation.

Gu Nan was driving an ATV alone and overturned and was crushed to death. The ATV owner surnamed Chen paid 3.7 million yuan in compensation and was given a suspended sentence. (Photo by reporter Li Lifa)

A man surnamed Gu and several friends went to Hengchun to rent an ATV. Gu, who was driving alone, accidentally overturned and suffered severe head injuries. He was sent to the hospital and died. The owner of the ATV, surnamed Chen, failed to take safety precautions and was charged with negligent death. Pingtung considered that Chen had reached a settlement with the family of the deceased and agreed to pay 3.7 million yuan in compensation. The judge gave Chen a chance to suspend his sentence and could appeal.

More than two years ago, Gu Nan went to Hengchun with Lin Nan and other friends. They rented an ATV from a businessman named Chen to drive. Gu Nan, who was driving alone, accidentally overturned on a sand dune and was crushed by the ATV, causing intracranial hemorrhage. He was rushed to the hospital and pronounced dead from his injuries.

Please read on...

After investigation, the prosecutor believed that ATVs have a higher center of gravity than ordinary vehicles and are at risk of overturning. They should wear safety helmets and set up relevant passenger protection measures. The operator should explain emergency rescue matters and formulate an emergency rescue plan. However, Chen Nan failed to inform him and should be prosecuted for negligent death.

During the trial in the Pingtung District Court, the business owner surnamed Chen reached a settlement with the family of the deceased, agreeing to pay 3.7 million yuan in compensation and express remorse. The judge sentenced Chen to 10 months in prison for the crime of negligent homicide, with a suspended sentence of 5 years.