Driving in Thailand — 1

How dangerous is driving in Thailand?

Over the next couple of days, I’m going to post some short pieces of examples of bad driving in the country with the highest civilian death rate in the world.

Many bloggers comment about it. Few explain WHY it occurs. it’s largely cultural!

The largest death toll is with motor cyclists. Even so, it is significantly understated. The government only record deaths at the scene of an accident. Deaths in the ambulance or at the hospital are not recorded.

As you can see in the image above, no-one keeps to their correct lane, none are signalling, none are following the rules. It is the cultural concept of “Me First”. If you see a gap, move into it.

How many of you have signalled left, positioned your vehicle for the turn, but found a biker trying to overtake you on the left? I’ve learned to do a shoulder check before completing the turn.

It is frustrating when they hold up traffic by occupying ALL the lanes.

And not keeping to the rules can lead to fatal accidents.

Here are 6 true short stories about bikers. You can browse or read them in “A Thailand Diary”, available on this website. Go to MY BOOKSHOP on the menu bar. comments are always welcome.

22 January, Motorbikes pulling out in front of you.
10 April, A fatal bike accident.
27 July, Leaving the scene of an accident.
17 August, The Thai Highway Code.
17 September, No signals, No problem.
8 December, Bikers never look where they’re going.