Bus accidents in Thailand have increased nearly 50% in recent years

Bus accidents in Thailand have increased nearly 50% in recent years

Public bus accidents in Thailand surged by 46.5% in 2023, with fatalities more than doubling from the previous year, according to the NESDC. Driver behavior, including speeding, tailgating, and fatigue, accounted for 81.1% of incidents, exacerbated by poor working conditions. Ageing, poorly maintained buses and unsafe vehicle modifications, such as improperly installed CNG systems, further increased risks. A tragic example occurred on October 1, when an overloaded school excursion bus caught fire, revealing severe safety violations. Despite promises of reform, inadequate enforcement and prioritization of profit over safety persist, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and accountability.