kwilco

Over the years there have been several attempts to open a fish and chip shop in Pattaya. They usually pack up after a while. One wonders how big the potential market is and how often it would purchase fish and chips Supplying the right stuff - Cod /Haddock and pickles etc must be a headache. How do you appeal to people outside the British Expat community to increase the market without loosing the general |authenticity" of it? I would be nice if they succeeded where others have failed - what are the odds?

So if they need a hospital it's their fault, it you need a hospital it's someone else's fault?

THis is why ealier I also mentioned that there needs to be a total reform of te police - which is possibly a constitutional affair. For road safety to improve in Thailand the approach is well documented, but it has to be a holistic approach - if you miss out on one aspect then the whole thing collapses like a deck of cards.

I think you can see earlier I posted that enforcement is regional and inconsistent.

curious logic - andf you need to review your knowledge of the Thai first respons=der and emergency services if you think you'll get any proper response regardless of other road users.

few years back a friend of mine was pulled over with dozrns of others for not wearing a het - he had to pay a fine at the station - but they pointed out that a taxi motorsai nearby could take his fine to the station for him - so he paid that way - off went the motosai - of course not wearing a helmet. A friend's wife was also stopped for not wearing a helet - and on the s[pot fine - it was particua=larly annoying as she was driving a car.

most people don't realise that if you just drop a helmet - even if you are not wearing it, it should be discarded and the structural integrity is likely to be compromised.

In the last 20 years helmet wearing has increased - as has the quality of some helmets. THe helmet is now becoming a fashion item amongst younger riders - who are the highest risk group. Enforcement is inconsistent and regional - before that changes significantly it requires a major reformation of the police force. THat would requit=re a constitutional review.

You need hot weather gear - Carbon fibre wear is good. When I'm on a bike I wear stuff that will "erode" rather than tear on asphalt. Apart from hemet, I pay attention to sleeves and legs but the most important this is foot wear - my colleagues noted I would turn up to work wearing heavy boots. I don't find it uncomfortable as the right, or rather safer, clothing acts as a shade rather than a heater. A quick visit to any hospital in a tourist area like Samui will show you what not wearing protective clothing can do - the wounds are clearly marked on the hundreds of tourists haveing their dressings changes. All of whom were on short trips in speedos thongs and singlets

Sorry but it doesn't work like that - an incident doesn't know how far you are travelling and takes only seconds to occur. airflow is a problem especially on full-faces not design for warmer climates but you can't avoid te evidence that most accidents occur close to home. If you want to know what effect coming of a bike at any speed is just imagine filling to the ground from a standing position and using only your head to break the fall. Helmets are only effective against "glancing" blows - on direct blows even at low speed they are ineffective as your brain (layered a bit like an onion) will shake haemorrhage and you'll die. Many accidents the victim seems totally unhurt they just die of brain injury - helmets reduce this but only up to a point . Speed is a factor of about 20% in crashes and it covers all types of injuries but there is a very low threshold for head injuries and any speed is a threat. One of the reasons for the high injury and fatality rates close to home is that the "I'm-only-nipping-down-to-the shops" syndrome kicks in and people fail to take full safety precautions. It's a bit like throwing a dice, the risk is constant per kilometre - it does in increase with distance

There is a general misconception caption that longer journeys are more dangerous than short ones. The truth is that most accidents occur within 10 km of home. Head injuries from a motorcycle can occur regardless of speed, it is the distance from the head to the ground. Full face in the main offers protection against face and jaw injuries

after 3 months in Thailand you need a Thai driving licence. For a start insurance companies expect it.....you may even find others do too.

If the OP has never owned a bike, does he/she even have a licence? THe Thai test is actually reasonably good these days but the problem of any test/training is it only prepares you to start motorcycling. You then need to build up the right kind of experience - as opposed to bad habits - and this comes with time. So Although a small m/cin BKK is useful, I can't see how the OP expects to go from never having ridden a bike to mastering BKK traffic in a matter of weeks. Maybe begin by learning to ride outside BKK? ...or in a quiet suburb? Between 73 and 80% of all peopoe KILLEd on Thai roads are riders (including passengers) of 2-wheeled vehicles - this is around 10 times more likely to happen than in a private 4-wheeled vehicle. That's just the deaths it doesn't include minor , serious or life-changing injuries.

There is a bad habit of people in the event of a crash to play the "blame game" this actually isn't helpful when it comes to understanding road safety. There is also a desire to apportioned blame to one party and claim that to beasolution. It is in fact very unusual for any one party to be totally "at fault" in a crash from a dispassionate objective point of view.

see where you're coming from., but it has to be said - and yes traffic engineering was an unexpected part of a degree.

Firstly let’s start by pointing out that “bad driving” is a purely subjective expression. The OP is an example of everything that is mistaken with foreigners perceptions of driving in Thailand and is manifested by a reliance on anecdotal evidence and a misuse of heuristics. I’d say there is an almost universal and unquestioning misinterpretation of what is happening on Thai roads. This is promulgated by all forms of the media but accepted by both expats and the Thai authorities it goes against everything that science has proved about road safety and is sadly tainted with a large dose of racism. Rather than really considering the reality, critics resort to a litany of clichés and regurgitated anecdotes. One of the factors is that people tend to have a narrow view of what constitutes "good" or "bad" driving. They may judge other drivers harshly based on their own personal preferences or experiences, without considering the context of the situation. For example, someone might think that a driver is "bad" for cutting them off in traffic, but they might not realize that the other driver was actually making a safe lane change to avoid an accident. Another reason why people misinterpret driving behaviour is that they often focus on the negative aspects of driving rather than the positive ones. This can lead to a perception that there is more bad driving on the roads than there actually is. In reality, most drivers are actually quite law-abiding and considerate of other road users. Finally, people's perceptions of driving behaviour can also be influenced by their media consumption. News reports and television shows often focus on accidents and incidents involving bad driving, which can give people a distorted view of how often these things happen. As a result, people may be more likely to notice and remember negative driving behaviour than positive behaviour.

"they" - don't tell you are resorting to racist stereotyping?

Yes 1) people pretty much keep to the speed limits, unlike back in the day when I learned to drive The fact is that most countries used to have similar death rates to Thailand (BTW – deaths per 100k is NOT the only way to look t it) So you have to ask WHAT happened – are todays younger drivers in the West less stupid than we were? – I don’t think that is the answer 2) you get in the right lane at the approach to a junction or roundabout, according to the signage, and you will probably come out on the right road. Indeed – road markings and signage are down to traffic engineers – I don’t think Thailand has anyone trained to do this job. The fact is that road markings and signage in Thailand are at best haphazard but much of the time non-existent – so choosing a lane is seldom and option 3 – I find Thai drivers to be VERY tolerant – they run to a different set of manners and courtesy to what we unquestioningly call “manners” in the West – it’s a different code – but once understood, you’ll find driving so much easier. Every country has aggressive and looney drivers they are there in the same numbers – there’s no “racial difference - the difference is the roads at home make it very difficult for them to give full vent to their aggression

It's a bit worrying that you don't appear to understand this isn't relevant to my point. I can show you videos and photos like this from every country in the world - the UK has whole TV shows about crashes but has one of th lowest death rates in the world

It is my considered opinion that generally speaking foreign drivers are in fact worse than Thai drivers. Why because they fail to adapt to the Thai driving environment. Thai drivers have been driving here all their lives and are aware of the vagaries of driving on Thai roads - Western expats are unaware of their own failings, have a false sense of entitlement and consider their driving to be superior to everyone else's. It is a drawback of good safety at home that drivers fall into a false sense of superiority and consider them selves to be "superb" drivers - they simply don't realise that it is the holistic road system - from cradle to grave that is keeping them safe DESPITE themselves

"self evident" is what I have a problem with - read my bit on perception, confirmation biases etc " "The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic status, or ethnic background, is that, deep down inside, we all believe that we are above-average drivers." – Dave Barry – Author/ columnist - Pulitzer Prize for Commentary When it comes to road safety, the notion of "seeing is believing" is certainly not the case. Confirmation bias and cognitive dissonance are the two main obstacles to clear thinking when it comes to road safety, and it is important to overcome them."

Ok - how do you come to that conclusion? Why do you think "they're foolhardy, reckless and selfish. Way more than other countries"?

stupidity in driving doesn't go by nationality - every country has a similr share of idiot drivers - the heart of a good road safety sytem is protecting road usrs and preventing the stupid from being stupid.

THey aren't doing their job because nobody has actually defined it. Any police force here will have only limited success without a court/legal system to back them up. THere is also the constitutional role of the RTP to consider.

Road Safety in Thailand Is anybody actually working towards improving road safety in Thailand? Most of what is published in the media about road safety in Thailand is biased and the views expressed are out of touch with modern thinking on road safety. The approaches taken by successive governments and the public's perception are fundamentally flawed. It is important to dispel a few myths. This is not about blaming "bad drivers"; it's about recognizing road safety as a public health problem. Thailand needs to adopt a modern approach to road safety, shifting responsibility from individual road users to those who design traffic systems. Many foreigners who comment on road safety in Thailand use it as an opportunity to criticize Thai people in general, which has nothing to do with actual road safety. It's time to end the blame game and genuinely reduce casualties. We must acknowledge that "bad driving" is not necessarily the primary cause of accidents; instead, it is often a failure of the whole road system itself that results in death or serious injury. Road traffic safety encompasses the methods and measures employed to prevent road users from being killed or seriously injured. Typical road users include pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, vehicle passengers, horse riders, and passengers of on-road public transport (source: Wikipedia). One thing everyone can agree on is that the death rate on Thai roads is unacceptably high. However, the general perception of the reasons behind this and the actual situation is often far from accurate. ROAD SAFETY AND MEDIA REPORTING Road traffic crashes are often covered in the media as isolated events rather than being recognized as a leading cause of death and a significant burden on a country's human, health, and financial resources. By framing road safety as a health and development issue, journalists have the opportunity to influence the way these stories are told, potentially shifting public behaviour and attitudes, influencing policy, and ultimately saving lives. Road safety has been studied as a science for over 75 years. It's not just about "driving"; it encompasses various aspects related to road safety. In Thailand, there is a need for a change in perception among people, including authorities, foreigners, and locals, regarding road safety. Thailand needs to adopt an evidence-based road safety strategy before any improvements can be made, that must include all necessary components, such as infrastructure improvement, communication and advocacy, and enforcement. Unfortunately, such a comprehensive strategy has not been successfully established yet. Furthermore, it is essential to look beyond the sole focus on "deaths" as a statistic, as this perpetuates myths. Countries that have made progress in road safety use a wide range of criteria, including serious injuries, minor injuries, rates per distance travelled or per registered vehicles, and vehicles per capita. In Thailand, authorities and police often overlook these factors, and basic analyses are neglected. Crash report forms in Thailand are rare and incomplete, despite their importance in gathering detailed information about accidents. Without this information, it is impossible to address Thailand's road safety problems effectively. Key information that should be included in crash reports comprises location, time and date, individuals involved (road user type, age, gender, and injuries sustained), road details (e.g., intersection, speed limit, curvature, traffic control, markings), environmental factors (light conditions, weather, road surface conditions), a narrative of the crash (vehicle movement, objects struck, and contributing factors such as speed, alcohol use, or driver distraction), and vehicle factors (types of vehicles involved). "Road traffic injuries are a major public health problem in Thailand. The number of fatalities, injuries, and disabilities has a significant impact on individuals, families, society, and the nation as a whole" (source: PubMed). It costs the Thai economy trillions of baht every year. The advice and solutions to improve road safety are available. Many national and international organisations are offering to help. Perceptions "The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic status, or ethnic background, is that, deep down inside, we all believe that we are above-average drivers." – Dave Barry – Author/ columnist - Pulitzer Prize for Commentary When it comes to road safety, the notion of "seeing is believing" is certainly not the case. Confirmation bias and cognitive dissonance are the two main obstacles to clear thinking when it comes to road safety, and it is important to overcome them. Confirmation bias refers to the tendency people have to embrace information that supports their beliefs and reject information that contradicts them. For example, if you have formed the belief that drivers of pickup trucks are rude, every time you witness one making a manoeuvre you disapprove of, you say, "Look, see what I mean?" However, subconsciously, you ignore other vehicles and drivers who engage in similar behaviours. Cognitive dissonance occurs when learning new information creates discomfort due to conflicting beliefs or behaviours. People often deal with this by finding ways to justify their actions or discrediting and ignoring new information. For instance, when confronted with statistical evidence that contradicts your belief about Fortuner drivers, you may ignore the evidence and continue to view Fortuners as culprits. A common sign of cognitive dissonance is the tendency to ask for citations or evidence rather than accepting a point or presenting a reasoned argument against it (known as sealioning). Overcoming these prejudices is crucial to gaining a realistic understanding of the road safety situation in Thailand and assessing one's own driving skills. To comprehend road safety, it is advisable to discard the concept of "bad drivers" altogether and consider it in terms of human error within a road safety environment—a holistic approach to Thailand's road conditions. By doing so, you can evaluate how you fit into this environment as a road user or even as a bystander. This process may require introspection, but ultimately, it can contribute to making Thai roads safer for everyone. Perceptions in Thailand often appear distorted, as reflected in government policies and many comments seen in the media, be it mainstream news or social media platforms. Most of the advice regarding driving in Thailand seems to revolve around playing the "blame game," targeting "other" (Thai) drivers, and echoing dictums from politicians who want to appear proactive. However, this perspective has long been discredited in road safety science. Preconceptions and prejudices often plague foreign drivers in Thailand, who may feel overwhelmed by the unfamiliar traffic environment. This can lead to criticizing native drivers who seem more at ease on the roads, often in an aggressive and condescending manner. Foreigners' comments on road safety in Thailand tend to be derogatory, lacking critical thinking or research. Instead, they rely on anecdotal evidence or personal observations, resulting in weak and fallacious arguments. Moreover, much of this advice is ill-considered and frequently incorrect, as those offering it lack experience or genuine knowledge of the factors contributing to road safety, not only in Thailand but globally. It is important to remember that simply being able to operate a car does not make someone an "expert" on road safety. Statistically, driving a four-wheeled private vehicle is much safer than commonly believed. The road death rate for such vehicles in Thailand is similar to that in the USA. Many opinions expressed on chat websites and forums by non-Thais display a consistent negativity towards Thai drivers. Virtually every opinion is thoroughly negative. Additionally, many posters suggest that the roads are too dangerous to drive oneself and recommend using a driver or public transport instead. However, this line of thinking is highly illogical since they have already labelled Thai drivers as the "worst in the world." It begs the question of why they would trust a driver they deem incompetent to transport them. On one hand, they admit their own incompetence to drive on Thai roads, but on the other hand, they claim all Thai drivers are dangerous and incapable. What truly matters is assessing your own competency as a driver and your ability to understand, adapt to, and acclimatize to the driving environment in Thailand. It has been my experience that many foreigners, even those who have lived in the country for a long time, fail to grasp these concepts. The default position for foreigners in Thailand is to unleash vitriol when discussing their fellow road users, excluding themselves from the equation while implying their driving skills are superior to those of any Thai person. Furthermore, it seems that many non-drivers among foreigners also participate in these discussions and express equally passionate views. This highlights that road safety encompasses more than just driving—it involves all road users, including pedestrians, street vendors, elephants, and more. However, if we were to believe everything that non-Thais post on chat forums, we would have to conclude that almost everyone is better than the average driver, which is mathematically impossible. Providing detailed anecdotal descriptions of how other motorists drive poorly achieves nothing. Without analysis, these descriptions only reinforce individuals' prejudices about driving in Thailand, directing blame towards individuals or even the entire nation instead of considering the underlying causes. There is also a temptation to oversimplify matters by seeking a single solution as a panacea for road safety. There are a few common truths about how motorists view themselves compared to other road users: George Carlin astutely observed, "Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?" Virginia Graham said, "There are only three types of drivers: the too fast, the timid, and oneself." Stirling Moss humorously remarked, "There are two things no man will admit he cannot do well: drive and make love." A survey conducted by Michelin North America revealed that a majority of Americans don't trust other drivers and regularly witness unsafe driving behaviours. Yet, an overwhelming 81 percent of them remain supremely confident in their own driving abilities. Research conducted by the Centre for Transport and Society in the UK demonstrates that the public recognizes driver behaviour as a significant contributing factor to the majority of road accidents. However, there is a consistent belief that others drive in a riskier manner than they do themselves. This discrepancy also extends to older children and adolescents, who believe they possess good attitudes and skills regarding road safety but perceive their peers as lacking in these areas. Individuals tend not to perceive themselves as dangerous on the roads but fervently believe others are. This leads to a mindset of "I am not likely to be responsible for an accident; others are likely to be responsible. Therefore, there is little I can do." Consequently, individuals may not feel the need to plan to avoid accidents, and campaigns aimed at promoting safe driving are often seen as directed toward "other" drivers rather than themselves. This perception reinforces the difference between oneself and others. The third-person effect, where individuals believe enforcement, engineering solutions, and education are necessary for other people but not themselves, further supports this viewpoint. However, the reality often diverges significantly from these biased perspectives. Overall, it is crucial to challenge these biased perspectives and embrace evidence-based thinking. Road safety requires a collective effort from all road users to create a safer environment. By examining our own driving skills and behaviours and considering the underlying causes of road safety issues, we can work towards improving the situation for everyone involved. Statistics Mark Twain (along with others) famously said, "There are lies, damned lies, and statistics." Unfortunately, the statistics gathered in Thailand have been plagued by issues of incompleteness, inconsistency, and inaccuracy. International organizations like the WHO struggle to make sense of the data, and in some categories, the statistics are simply unavailable. The gathering and application of statistics in Thailand can be described as haphazard at best. Despite their limitations, the statistics for Thailand, however vague, paint a genuinely frightening picture of a serious road safety problem in the country. Some of the statistics commonly used to assess road safety include deaths per 1 million inhabitants, serious injuries per 1 million inhabitants, minor injuries per 1 million inhabitants, deaths per 10 billion vehicle-kilometres, deaths per 100,000 registered vehicles, and registered vehicles per 1000 inhabitants. To gather these statistics, a crash report form is typically used, providing detailed information about the crash, such as location, time, individuals involved, road and environmental conditions, crash details, and vehicle factors. However, efforts to systematically reduce crashes in Thailand have been hindered by a lack of accurate data, including geo-referenced crash and health outcome data. As Michael Bloomberg once said, "If you can't measure it, then you can't manage it." Various agencies and individuals can benefit from crash data, including traffic engineers, policy-makers, police, the health sector, the research community, insurance companies, vehicle manufacturers, and prosecutors. However, the main data sources for road safety statistics in Thailand, such as the Police Information System (POLIS) and other governmental databases, are seldom used or acknowledged by the mainstream media. The media in Thailand often relies on incomplete and inaccurate data provided by the Thai police, who release statistics prematurely without proper follow-up or recording of minor or serious injury categories. The statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), which gather data on deaths per 100,000 population, serious injuries, and minor injuries, are also misrepresented by the media, as they focus only on the deaths without considering the broader picture. Thailand's road safety challenges are exacerbated by the exponential growth of traffic in the country over the past three decades. The government's focus on industry subsidies and road building has led to a massive expansion of the road infrastructure, with little regard for safety. With an estimated 5 million cars in Bangkok alone and a preference for individual motorized transport, Thailand lacks a solid public transport system and infrastructure. It is worth noting that the majority of road deaths in Thailand involve vulnerable road users, with 73% of all deaths being motorcyclists. Factors contributing to road traffic injuries (RTIs) in Thailand are similar to those in other parts of the world, and statistics worldwide show that people with lower socioeconomic status are more at risk. When comparing road safety statistics between Thailand and other countries, it becomes clear that the difference lies not in the number of accidents but in the significantly higher number of deaths in Thailand. This can be attributed to the country's failure to adopt the Safe System approach and implement the "Five Es": education, engineering, enforcement, emergency response, and evaluation. Common factors contributing to road traffic incidents in Thailand include speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and other substances, non-use of motorcycle helmets, seat belts, and child restraints, distracted driving (often caused by mobile phone use), unsafe road infrastructure, unsafe vehicles, inadequate post-crash care, and inadequate law enforcement of traffic laws. Improving road safety in Thailand requires accurate and comprehensive data, a focus on infrastructure improvements, stricter law enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and better post-crash care. It is crucial to address these issues to effectively tackle the lamentable road death situation in Thailand and ensure the safety. Driving Skills Driving skills are essential for safe and effective driving worldwide. However, many people claim to be skilled drivers without a clear understanding of what these skills entail. In order to drive safely, both physical and mental driving skills are required. Let's examine the checklist provided by the UK police to understand the essential skills. Physical Skills: Control: A driver should be able to effectively control the vehicle's direction, acceleration, and deceleration. This includes tasks like starting the vehicle, selecting the correct gear, operating the pedals, steering, and using important ancillary devices such as indicators and lights. Observation: A driver should have good observation skills to identify hazards and changes in the driving environment. Being aware of one's surroundings is crucial for safe driving. Mental Skills: Defensive Driving: Defensive driving is not about being slow or indecisive; it means driving to save lives, time, and money despite the conditions and actions of other drivers. It involves utilizing various techniques and tactics to ensure the safety of oneself and others on the road. Emergency Handling: Being able to avoid or handle emergency driving situations is vital. This includes making good decisions based on road and traffic conditions, evasive manoeuvring, understanding vehicle dynamics, and mastering steering and braking techniques. Observation and Anticipation: Observation and anticipation are key to driving anywhere in the world. Drivers need to constantly observe the traffic around them and anticipate potential risks and hazards. It is important to note that police forces around the world are often regarded as road safety experts. For instance, the UK police have devoted significant efforts to learning about road safety through publications like "Roadcraft." These resources can be valuable for both police officers and civilian drivers seeking to enhance their driving skills. When it comes to driving in Thailand, there are specific considerations drivers should keep in mind. Driving in Thailand requires a high level of observation and adjustment. Drivers must be prepared to read and react to the traffic rather than expecting others to drive as they do in their home country. Experience, common sense, understanding one's vehicle, and gauging other drivers' behaviour are essential for safe driving in Thailand. Certain aspects of driving in Thailand may surprise inexperienced drivers. For example, a semi-truck in the offside lane that signals right and then swerves left might indicate an upcoming U-turn at a break in the median. Priority on the left is a common rule in Thailand, giving vehicles entering a junction from the left the right of way. Proper use of mirrors and indicators is crucial, as failure to do so can lead to accidents. Tinted windows are popular in Thailand, which can hinder visual communication between drivers. Therefore, it is important to use indicators and position your vehicle appropriately to convey your intentions to others on the road. Each country has its own nuances when it comes to driving customs. Understanding these differences and adapting to local driving practices is crucial for safe and successful driving abroad. Driving and Dealing with the Law "Only 28 countries, representing 416 million people (7% of the world's population), have adequate laws that address all five risk factors: speed, drink-driving, helmets, seat-belts, and child restraints." However, Thailand may claim to have these laws, but a combination of inadequate metrication and enforcement renders them ineffective. It is important to maintain a calm and respectful attitude when pulled over by the police in Thailand. As the Land of Smiles is known for its people having a subdued attitude, raising your voice and arguing will only cause further problems. Shouting out the driving laws of your own country in English or any other language will have an adverse effect on the situation. There is a fundamental flaw with Thai law; the court system is so long-winded that it simply doesn't work well for small cases such as motoring offenses. As a result, the police tend to take on the role of the judiciary and try to resolve problems as quickly as possible. This usually involves no legally recognized evidence and minimal reference to the law, but rather, money changing hands to those the police believe to be the injured party and a "commission" to the police for resolving the issue. NB - If you ever have the misfortune of being involved in an incident, the first thing to do is CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE company. They will quickly send an agent to the scene. Then make sure emergency services and the police are contacted. Your insurance agent will act as an intermediary on your behalf. Paying Fines and Corruption Many foreigners grossly underestimate the extent of corruption in Thailand. From the highest levels of society to the lowest, corruption is not only endemic but also epidemic. Recent surveys suggest that 60% of Thai people believe that corruption is acceptable as it facilitates bureaucracy. Most Thais accept paying cash on the spot, often without receiving a receipt. When driving, you will almost certainly encounter the police or sometimes the army. They will either set up roadblocks or conduct random checks. The purpose of these "checks" is seldom anything more than a means to raise money. It is no coincidence that most police checks take place within walking distance of a police station. Police are increasingly using speed cameras, although it is unclear how well or regularly they are calibrated. Motorists are not always stopped on the spot; the police have started sending out speeding tickets to the registered owners of vehicles captured on camera. This practice is becoming more commonplace nationwide. Fines paid this way are less likely to go directly into the pockets of corrupt officers, as the payments are receipted. So, perhaps this is a positive development. Renters should be prepared to obtain a letter from their car hire company when they return home. Many motoring "offenses" are "detected" at police checkpoints, but they tend to focus on one offense at a time. The most common targets for the police are motorcycles, as these vehicles are notorious for non-compliance. Many bikes are untaxed, uninsured, etc., making them easy targets for the local police. Helmet laws can go unenforced for weeks, and then a plethora of "checks" will be set up, usually near traffic lights. Hordes of motorcyclists can be seen standing on the curb, calling a friend to pay the 100 or 200 baht "fine" in cash, usually without a receipt. Nowadays, you may notice a booth set up to issue tickets, presumably to give the impression of legitimacy. Motorcycles are mostly driven by low-income individuals who are unlikely to have influential connections. There is an unspoken hierarchy: expensive (imported) cars are the least likely to be stopped, as their owners are more likely to have influential friends. Some car drivers with "connections" will carry the laminated name card of a high-ranking police officer for use in such circumstances. A couple of phone calls, and an assertive officer is put in their place, and the problem goes away. On four wheels, the prime targets are pickups (usually old) and trucks, often unroadworthy or overloaded. Commercial vehicles are adorned with "Lai Thai" artwork images and patterns, largely for protection, good luck, and to deter police from extorting money before the drivers can complete their journeys. So, what about regular private road users? You will certainly come across checkpoints from time to time. Does being a foreigner affect your chances? Well, it can work both ways depending on the individual officer. Some may not want the hassle of dealing with a foreigner who doesn't realize they have to pay a bribe and protests their innocence (Don't try this). Others may see you as a potential target for a larger "fine." You can also be pulled over in what seems like a highly dangerous practice, as an officer walks out in front of your car and signals you to pull over. I've noticed that some people just drive on and pretend they didn't see, but I don't recommend it! Do you need to have committed an offense? It helps, but it's not essential; they may pull you over for a "check" and then decide what you have done wrong. It could be something like "speeding," even if there is no speed camera in sight, or it could be something like "being in the wrong lane," even if the observation was made with your vehicle out of the officer's line of vision. Once they have you stopped, they may find a few other "infractions." I have been stopped occasionally over the last 20 years or so, but it doesn't always result in a fine, and only once did it become acrimonious. That incident involved my passenger (a Thai medical practitioner) and the rather bemused officer, but no payment was made. Negotiations? Sometimes polite haggling works. It's easier to do so without showing a wallet full of money, so it's best to have a couple of hundred baht lying around. Once, I was stopped by an officer asking for the usual 200 baht. I asked if 100 baht would suffice, but he said "no" as he "had a friend." On another occasion, I was asked why I had a boat on the roof, and my Thai passenger explained that it wouldn't fit in the car. This explanation seemed to satisfy the officer, and no fine was paid that time. These stoppages usually take no more than 5 minutes, and if you elect not to "pay the fine," you will likely spend the rest of the day at a local police station filling out forms, and the "real" fine may be higher. So, most people choose to assume that what they are paying is "legit," even though it defies reason. However, faced with the alternatives, taking the easy way out is very compelling. I've noticed that I have to pay less often as the years go by, possibly because my Thai language skills have improved, and I can engage in small talk. Working for a BOI company may also help. Insurance When you pay road tax, you are also required to buy compulsory national third-party insurance. This costs only a few hundred baht, and it doesn't provide much coverage. It only covers death or injury to third parties, and even then, the coverage is limited to a few thousand baht. In short, you can legally drive, but you aren't adequately covered. It's quite possible that any vehicle you collide with may only have this minimal insurance coverage, so having your own insurance is crucial. For more coverage, you need to purchase additional insurance, which typically costs between 10,000 to 20,000 baht per year. Most insurance policies in Thailand include a bail bond in their coverage. In the event of an incident, the first thing you need to do is contact your insurance company, and they will send a representative to the scene. The representative will deal with the police and other parties on your behalf. In more serious cases, the police have been known to detain everyone until they sort out the situation, which is why having a bail bond is important. This is also why many commercial drivers flee the scene after an incident. Driving License To avoid getting into too much detail, it is recommended that you obtain an IDP (International Driving Permit) before coming to Thailand. This permit is accepted most readily by authorities, roadside police, and car rental agencies. Thailand also accepts driving licenses from several countries as long as they have a photo and are in English, but some police officers may not be aware of this. After three months in Thailand, you are required to obtain a Thai driving license, as many insurance companies won't provide full coverage without it. Separate licenses are issued for motorcars and motorcycles. The foreign license must either be in English or be accompanied by an official translation into English or Thai. The license needs to have been issued by a country that has a treaty with the Thai government allowing the mutual acceptance of driving licenses. If you're from the UK, it's important to note that you need a photo license. Please note that the information provided here is based on the text you provided, and it may not be up to date or fully accurate. It's always a good idea to consult official sources or seek the advice of local authorities when dealing with legal matters or driving in a foreign country. THAI CULTURE, HISTORY, RIVERS, AND DRIVING Thailand, undergoing a rapid transition from an agricultural to an industrial society, has developed a strong affinity for cars, pickups, and motorcycles. The country's motor industry ranks around 11th among the world's top producers, surpassing even the UK in terms of production. However, Thailand faces its own unique challenges. The archaic caste system known as Sakdina, which prevailed until the 20th century, continues to leave its mark on Thai society, including its roads. Thailand's society is one of the most unequal in the world, and this hierarchy extends to the roads as well, with the poor being at a higher risk of accidents compared to the affluent and well-connected. The notion that a specific race or nation has a higher proportion of reckless drivers is an invalid one. Other societies are simply more successful in curbing the reckless behaviour of their drivers. Factors such as lack of enforcement and training, varying driving conditions and customs, and inadequate road safety measures may contribute to the perception of Thai drivers as being inherently or racially inept. However, dismissing all Thai drivers based on these generalizations reflects a profound lack of understanding of both Thailand and driving. Using "culture" as a basis for such stereotypes is a tool employed by racists, but it is important to recognize that culture is not static—it evolves over time, with deep roots in the past. Broad generalizations based on race or nationality simply do not hold true. Driving habits in Thailand can be unfamiliar to foreigners, but it's crucial to adapt quickly. Practices such as flashing lights, honking, and using hazard lights may differ from those in Western countries. However, these actions generally serve well-defined purposes, albeit with regional variations. Internationally, honking and flashing lights indicate presence, while hazard lights indicate a stationary vehicle in a hazardous position. Any other uses, whether in the West or East, are typically inferred from the specific context. Stories about U-turns, wrong-way traffic on dual carriageways, and other seemingly "crazy" driving behaviours are part of everyday life in Thailand. While it may initially appear chaotic, it doesn't take long to understand and adjust to these driving patterns. Failure to adapt may lead to abrupt and unfortunate consequences for your journey. Having some knowledge of Thai culture can help explain certain aspects of driving in Thailand. However, the phrase "it's Thai culture" should be approached with caution, as it often serves as a cover-up for personal prejudice or racism. Nevertheless, understanding how elements of Thai cultural and religious practices relate to driving can provide insight into the peculiarities encountered on the road. Thailand has a long history that was predominantly centred around rivers. Before the rise of motorized transport, rivers served as the main transportation routes in the country. Even today, the influence of rivers on daily Thai life remains significant. Thai culture has deep connections with rivers and canals, which were vital for transportation, sustenance, ceremonies, and the development of cities. Although the introduction of automobiles and roads diminished the role of the canal system, certain transportation rules and practices have remained ingrained in the Thai psyche. Roads were constructed facing them, and many canals were paved over to become streets. Traditional Thai transportation relied heavily on long-tail boats, akin to gondolas, which played a crucial role in keeping the Thai economy afloat. These flat-bottomed boats were primarily propelled by oars and sometimes small sails, navigating the calm waters of delta rivers and canals. The influence of water culture on Thai life is pervasive, with boat-shaped buildings, boat-themed restaurants, and ornate boat-inspired decorations found on vehicles. The ornate decorations adorning buses, trucks, and other vehicles in Thailand draw heavily from boat and temple aesthetics. These vehicles are often adorned with bright colours, intricate patterns, and images of mythical creatures and deities. This tradition of embellishing vehicles can be traced back to the belief that the decorations offer protection and bring good luck on the roads. Religious practices also influence driving behaviour in Thailand. The majority of Thais follow Theravada Buddhism, which emphasizes concepts such as karma and the impermanence of life. These beliefs are reflected in driving attitudes, with many drivers displaying a relaxed and accepting approach to the unpredictability of the road. This can sometimes manifest as a lack of adherence to strict traffic rules or a greater tolerance for minor traffic violations. In addition, the concept of "saving face" plays a role in Thai driving culture. Maintaining personal dignity and avoiding public embarrassment are highly valued in Thai society. This can lead to situations where drivers may be hesitant to yield or give way, as it could be seen as losing face. It's important to be patient and understanding while driving in Thailand, as aggressive behaviour or confrontations can escalate quickly. Overall, understanding Thai culture, history, and the influence of rivers can provide valuable insights into driving habits and practices in Thailand. However, it's crucial to avoid making sweeping generalizations or stereotypes based on culture or nationality. Each individual's driving behaviour is influenced by a combination of factors, including personal experiences, education, and societal norms. Thailand's strong connection to rivers and boats also extends to its famous floating markets. These markets have a long-standing tradition in Thai culture and are a popular tourist attraction. Merchants sell a variety of goods, including fresh produce, local handicrafts, and delicious street food, all from their boats along the canals. Exploring a floating market gives visitors a glimpse into Thailand's rich heritage and the important role that rivers continue to play in everyday life. Furthermore, Thailand is home to the Chao Phraya River, the country's principal waterway. The river flows through the heart of Bangkok, shaping the city's landscape and serving as a major transportation route. Many of Bangkok's iconic landmarks, such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, are situated along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Taking a boat ride along the river provides a unique perspective of the city and allows visitors to appreciate the harmonious coexistence of modern development and traditional river culture. It's worth noting that while Thailand has experienced rapid motorization and the dominance of cars and motorcycles, there are still regions in the country where boats remain an essential mode of transportation. In rural areas, particularly in the northern and southern regions, rivers and canals continue to serve as vital lifelines for local communities, connecting remote villages and providing access to markets and essential services. Overall, the significance of rivers and boats in Thai culture is deeply intertwined with the country's history, traditions, and daily life. While Thailand has embraced modern modes of transportation, the legacy of its river-centric past continues to shape the country's cultural identity and influences various aspects of Thai society, including driving habits and the visual aesthetics of vehicles on the roads. The solution - the "Safe System"... What can be done to address road safety issues and the accompanying traffic injuries? Road traffic injuries can be prevented through proactive measures taken by governments. It is crucial for them to address road safety comprehensively, involving various sectors such as transportation, law enforcement, healthcare, education, and actions that target the safety of roads, vehicles, and road users. Effective interventions encompass designing safer infrastructure and incorporating road safety features into land-use and transport planning, enhancing vehicle safety features, improving post-crash care for road crash victims, establishing and enforcing laws related to key risks, and raising public awareness. The solution lies in the "Safe System" approach. What is the Safe System approach? The Safe System approach represents an integrated approach to road safety. It is essential to clarify that it is not about specific targets, dates, or timelines. Instead, it signifies a commitment to the notion that road deaths and casualties result not only from poor driving, although it is centrally relevant, but also from the overall transport system. This system encompasses signage, road user education, enforcement, infrastructure design, and construction. By implementing this approach, standards can be raised, and coordination can be improved to minimize preventable road deaths and injuries. The Safe System approach: Not blaming the driver but accommodating and anticipating inevitable human error... Unlike the traditional approach to road safety, the Safe System approach acknowledges that human error is no longer the sole cause of accidents. Instead, it recognizes that failures within the road system contribute to many collisions resulting in fatalities or severe injuries. Moreover, it shapes interventions with the long-term goal of achieving zero deaths and serious injuries, rather than relying solely on traditional methods to define long-term targets. The Safe System approach to road safety aims to establish a secure transport system for all road users. This approach considers people's vulnerability to severe injuries in road traffic accidents and acknowledges that the system should be designed to be forgiving of human error. The fundamental principles of this approach include: Safe roads and roadsides Safe speeds Safe vehicles Safe road users All these aspects must be addressed to eliminate fatal crashes and reduce serious injuries. RoSPA - In the UK, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, strives to minimize accidents across all areas... "Roads are vital in our daily lives. We use them in various ways, such as driving, riding, walking, or being passengers, and we rely on them to access goods and services. ... Unfortunately, this convenience comes at a cost, which includes lives lost and injuries sustained. However, road deaths and injuries are not inevitable. Recent decades have shown that effective and comprehensive road safety strategies can reduce the number of fatalities and injuries despite the increasing volume of traffic. Great Britain now boasts one of the world's best road safety records. However, with around five people still losing their lives on British roads every day, there is still much work to be done." - RoSPA In Thailand, there has been no effort so far to adopt the "Safe System." Successive governments have taken a piecemeal approach with various arbitrary measures that have little impact apart from creating an illusion of action. For instance, annual campaigns to curb deaths during the New Year and Songkran holidays have had minimal effects, as the death rates during those periods are typically slightly lower due to reduced commercial traffic. It is important to bear in mind that road deaths and injuries currently cost the Thai economy trillions of baht every year. The World Health Organization estimates that Thailand's losses from road accidents amount to Bt 500 billion, or approximately 3 percent of the country's gross domestic product. To address this dire situation, significant changes are needed and can be categorized into the following 5 "E"s: 1 - Education: People need comprehensive education on safe driving and sharing the road with other users. This extends beyond a one-time driving test and should include ongoing education throughout drivers' lives. It would be beneficial for Thailand to start with educating the police force. 2 - Enforcement: Proper enforcement is crucial. However, Thailand faces the additional challenge of ingrained corruption, graft, and bribery, which hinder effective enforcement regardless of the number of laws in place. Laws must be reasonable, applicable, and enforced equitably. The police and courts need to undergo training to address this issue effectively. It needs to be realised that to enforce traffic law one needs a fully trained specialised police force and a court / legal system that can cope with this efficiently and not only hand out penalties but pursue any defaulters. You also need a precise and standardised marking and signing system for the rods themselves. 3 - Engineering: a) Vehicle engineering: Emphasizing safer car design and engineering is essential. Car safety encompasses both passive features like seat belts, airbags, and construction, as well as active features like braking, steering, handling, and traction control. With the integration of computerized and high-tech features in modern vehicles, these two aspects are interdependent. Other crucial aspects include anti-locking brakes (ABS), side impact bars, advanced vehicle control and safety systems (AVCSS), electronic stability control (ESC), traction control, airbags, improved engine reliability, tires, and components, and overall vehicle dynamics. b) Road Engineering: This aspect includes the design and construction of roads, bridges, junctions, road surfaces, camber, drainage, etc. Measures like using barriers and medians (e.g., Armco), removing roadside hazards such as trees or boulders, clearing billboards and vegetation that obstruct drivers' vision, implementing clear traffic lines, signs, and bollards to regulate traffic flow and speed, and overall better infrastructure and road surfaces contribute to safer roads. Traffic calming measures and shared spaces that separate different road users are also crucial for safety. U-turns and other design flaws need to be addressed as well. 4 - Emergency: The response in the event of an injury is a significant factor in determining survival. The time between an accident and receiving treatment is crucial for the victims. Swift treatment at the scene and reducing the time it takes to transport patients to the hospital are vital. Thailand currently lacks an effective universal emergency service. Ambulances vary in equipment levels, ranging from unprepared vehicles to partially equipped ones. Paramedics are often insufficiently trained. 5 - Evaluation: It is essential to assess the effectiveness of implemented measures and explore new ideas. Most governments have agencies responsible for evaluating road schemes, including construction projects and safety campaigns. These agencies thoroughly review all aspects of the projects, such as their impact on the local population, environment, and accident statistics. Data and statistics are collected, monitored, and appropriate action is taken accordingly. Unfortunately, although Thailand may have nominal bodies fulfilling these functions, their effectiveness is almost negligible. Road safety in Thailand is primarily left to ill-conceived and baseless statements made by government officials with little better to do. The statistics collected in Thailand are incomplete, amateurish, and do not align with international conventions. By prioritizing and implementing comprehensive strategies encompassing the 5 "E"s, Thailand can make significant progress in improving road safety. It requires a collaborative effort involving government agencies, law enforcement, transportation authorities, healthcare professionals, educational institutions, and the public. Together, these efforts can create a safer and more sustainable road transport system for all road users in Thailand. Conclusion Looking ahead to the future, it is evident that road safety in Thailand requires significant and comprehensive changes. To achieve improvement, a complete re-evaluation is necessary, involving all stakeholders, from the government to the humblest road users. A transformative shift in attitude and policies is crucial. Thailand's road safety situation resembles a war zone. It is imperative to adopt the Safe System on a large scale. This entails implementing different roads, transforming the police force, fostering new driver attitudes, and bringing about a sea change in government approach. Until the Safe System is embraced, the number of road fatalities in Thailand will continue to surpass those of a country at war. The adoption of the Safe System represents the sole effective and sustainable solution for Thailand. However, it demands a substantial commitment from authorities, and the longer they delay, the more the problem exacerbates. The necessary measures include: Overhauling road design and construction. Reforming the police force with properly trained traffic officers. Revamping the legal system to address, issue, and enforce penalties, while eliminating corruption. – It may even require changes in the constitution. Launching a comprehensive and continuous health and safety campaign in all media channels, as a driving test alone is insufficient. Standardizing and centrally organizing emergency services. Thoroughly analysing and documenting all reported accidents on a comprehensive database. Implementing these changes may take years, but only then will Thailand witness a significant reduction in deaths and injuries on its roads. The process will come at a cost and necessitate political reforms, demanding the will of the ruling military-based government to recognize the necessity for change. If you choose to drive in Thailand in the near future, it is crucial to acknowledge that the roads will not become dramatically safer overnight. However, driving yourself offers various benefits, such as the freedom to set your own schedule, make impromptu stops, explore parts of the country that are inaccessible by trains, planes, minivans, or buses. It eliminates inconveniences like urinating into an empty water bottle during long bus journeys (unless that's your preference) and trying to find comfort next to overweight, flatulent sleeping strangers who have indulged in spicy nam prik. Additionally, you can carry your belongings in the car instead of on your back or beneath the bus floor, where they may be rifled through by porters. To ensure your safety, it is essential to honestly assess your own driving abilities. If you lack confidence as a driver in your home country, why should you feel any different in Thailand? If the information provided above is unfamiliar to you, it is advisable to seriously consider adapting. Driving in Thailand is not just about operating a vehicle; it involves much more. Although the principles should be the same as anywhere else in the world, this environment will test your skills to the limit. Thai roads are dangerous, especially for motorcyclists. However, if you are a competent driver armed with knowledge of the overall Thai driving environment, you can have a safe and enjoyable journey, while gaining unique experiences to share back home. So, instead of blaming others, take control of your own safety and have a secure trip.