Driving in Thailand

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What the hell. The traffic light has turned to red but the police officer is calling me forward. Cars from the left and the right are obviously obeying the green light that they have now been given.

This is becoming a free for all. Just drive on slowly, I suppose. That’s what everyone else seems to be doing. We are only complying with a signal given to us by the strong arm of the law.

4 on a motorbike, including a child and a baby. Only one crash helmet

Apart from when they are on crash helmet or seat belt purges, the country’s finest don’t routinely go after motorists or riders driving carelessly or dangerously. Three or more people on a bike, driving without lights, parking on a blind corner. Mai mee panha. No problem. Freedom of the individual to defy the occasional contravention of regulations. No need to make a fuss.

Goong told me this evening that she was in a hurry to get to work this morning and didn’t stop for a police helmet check. She just smiled and said she was late for work. He beckoned for her to go on her way. Personally, I think he should have at least made her put her helmet on.

As well as parking on a blind corner, cars will hold up traffic by blocking the road lanes for those wishing to go forward.