diff --git a/scripts/api.py b/scripts/api.py
index 10a76a8..7c7c434 100644
--- a/scripts/api.py
+++ b/scripts/api.py
@@ -861,7 +861,7 @@ Keep the full description to 150-250 words. Do not speculate beyond what is visi
         except Exception as e:
             if tmp_path and os.path.exists(tmp_path):
                 os.unlink(tmp_path)
-            raise HTTPException(status_code=500, detail=str(e))
+            return JSONResponse({"ok": False, "error": str(e), "error_type": "transcription_failed"})
 
     else:
         raise HTTPException(status_code=400, detail="No audio or image provided")