Thailand is a beautiful country with a lot to offer visitors, but its roads can be dangerous. In fact, Thailand has one of the highest road fatality rates in the world. This is due to a number of factors, including reckless driving, poor road conditions, and a lack of awareness of traffic laws.
If you are planning to drive in Thailand, it is important to be aware of the risks and to take steps to protect yourself and others. Here are some tips for defensive driving in Thailand:
- Be prepared for the unexpected. Thai drivers are known for their aggressive and unpredictable driving behavior. Be prepared for anything, and don’t assume that other drivers will follow the rules of the road.
- Obey the speed limit. Speeding is one of the leading causes of road accidents in Thailand. Be sure to obey the speed limit on all roads, and be especially careful in areas with high pedestrian traffic.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to other vehicles, pedestrians, and animals on the road. Be especially aware of motorcycles, which are a common form of transportation in Thailand.
- Use your turn signals. Be sure to use your turn signals at least 30 meters before turning or changing lanes. This will help other drivers to anticipate your movements and avoid accidents.
- Allow extra space between you and the car in front of you. This will give you more time to react if the car in front of you brakes suddenly.
- Avoid driving at night. Road conditions are often poor in Thailand, and visibility can be limited at night. If you must drive at night, be extra careful and drive slowly.
Here are some additional tips that may be helpful when driving in Thailand:
- Be aware of the pecking order on the road. Larger vehicles, such as trucks and buses, have priority over smaller vehicles. Be prepared to give them way if necessary.
- Be patient. Thai drivers can be very aggressive, and it is common to see road rage incidents. Try to stay calm and avoid getting into an argument with another driver.
- Be prepared for anything. It is not uncommon to see animals on the road, such as dogs, cats, and cows. Be prepared to stop suddenly if you see an animal in the road.
If you are involved in a road accident in Thailand, it is important to stay calm and to follow the following steps:
- Pull over to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.
- Check for any injuries. If anyone is injured, call 1669 for an ambulance.
- Exchange contact information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident.
- Take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved in the accident.
- File a police report. You can do this at the nearest police station.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road in Thailand.