Photo credit: Saeng Thamma Public Charity Association, Chiang Rai 

 

On May 11, 2023, a distressing traffic incident prompted a swift response from the local authorities in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand. Officers from the Muang Chiang Rai Police Station, together with representatives from the Chiang Rai Saeng Thamma Charity Association Headquarters, were dispatched to a severe accident site on the western bypass road near Chiang Rai College, situated in Pa O Don Chai Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Rai District.

 

Upon reaching the scene, they were confronted with a distressing sight: an 18-wheel trailer truck had violently collided with a 10-wheel truck at a U-turn on the four-lane road, reported Siam Rath.

 

The force of the impact had caused the 18-wheeler to overturn, coming to rest at the side of the road, while the 10-wheeler, laden with rocks and sand, had veered off into a tree and toppled into a roadside ditch. Both trucks had sustained significant damage, most notably at the front.

 

Photo credit: Saeng Thamma Public Charity Association, Chiang Rai 

 

Regrettably, both drivers, who were each traveling alone in their vehicles, were found trapped within the wreckage. The 18-wheeler's driver, a 38-year-old man, suffered from a critical leg wound and likely fracture, evident from the visible deformation. Emergency responders promptly utilized cutting equipment to free him from the wreck, administered first aid, and transported him urgently to Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital.

 

Sadly, the driver of the 10-wheeler was declared dead at the scene. His body was subsequently transported to the hospital for necessary formalities. An initial investigation was launched to determine the identities and information of both victims, facilitating the notification of the respective truck companies and the victims' families.

 

Preliminary findings suggest that the accident was triggered when one of the trucks attempted a U-turn, culminating in the disastrous collision. While a comprehensive investigation is still underway to determine the precise cause, it's worth noting that this area, despite its straight, four-lane structure, has been the site of numerous accidents. Many observers attribute this to the area's insufficient road lighting.

 

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U turns are deadly, and big trucks just pull right out in front of you as size has right of way. Motorists at full speed must often emergency brake to avoid a collision. When 2 trucks are involved, this is often the result. 
Thailand’s extensive and over use of U turns must be cut back, and return to intersections.
 

2 hours ago, webfact said:

Many observers attribute this to the area's insufficient road lighting

Or the infamous U-turn?

What they need are some of those 100,000 baht ornamental lamp posts.

 

 

16 minutes ago, nahkit said:

What they need are some of those 100,000 baht ornamental lamp posts.

 

 

Or streetlights that work. 

Last year the " back road" along the river bank from Chiang Rai to Wiang Chiang Rung was equipped with street lights.

 

At least 40% don't work, quite a few have simply fallen over.

Edited May 11, 20233 yr by herfiehandbag

8 hours ago, Gold Star said:

Thailand’s extensive and over use of U turns must be cut back, and return to intersections.

Why do you think intersections will help? Folks will ignore the lights or stop signs like they do at current intersections.

 

One particular intersection here in Isaan I frequent often always has vehicles continuing through the light after it has turned red. It doesn't seem to bother anyone even though there is usually a patrolman sitting in the little police shanty daily.

More amulets needed...!!