Truck Brakes Fails, Crashes into Cars at Red Light, and Catches Fire

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture from responders.

 

A crash involving an 18-wheeler and four other vehicles occurred morning on January 7, on Pu Chao Saming Phrai Road in Samut Prakan, resulting in significant damage and a fire that caused chaos and panic.

 

At approximately 04:50, police from Samrong Tai Police Station were alerted to a multi-vehicle collision and a subsequent fire near Wat Maha Wong intersection, heading toward Phra Pradaeng Pier. Firefighters and rescue units from the Pu Chao Saming Phrai Municipality and the Ruamkatanyu Foundation were dispatched to the scene.

 

The crash site revealed a wrecked 18-wheeler from Bangkok, its cab engulfed in flames. Behind the cab, six large CNG cylinders were located, prompting authorities to cordon off the area and redirect traffic to prevent further danger. Firefighters battled the blaze for over 30 minutes before bringing it under control.

 

The collision involved four vehicles that had been waiting at a red light. Among them were:

 

• A Toyota pickup truck with severe damage to both its front and rear.

• An Isuzu MU-X SUV from Bangkok, with front and rear dents.

• A Suzuki car from Bangkok, sustaining significant rear damage and minor front damage.

 

Initial investigations revealed that the 18-wheeler driver, identified as Mr. Komjit, 40, lost control of the vehicle when the brakes failed. He reported that he had been transporting an empty container to Phetchaburi and was fully awake and sober at the time of the crash. “I saw the cars ahead had stopped, but my brakes didn’t work. I hit the first vehicle, and then the windshield shattered, and a fire started. I had to jump out to save myself,” he explained.

 

The driver of the Toyota pickup, Mr. Den, 53, described how the trailer truck veered from the right lane and crashed directly into the back of his vehicle. The force of the collision caused his pickup to collide with the car in front of him.

 

Police have documented the scene and interviewed witnesses. The driver of the 18-wheeler was taken to the police station for further questioning and legal proceedings.

 

-- 2025-01-08

 

 

[watchcat]

  On 1/7/2025 at 10:06 PM, Georgealbert said:

I saw the cars ahead had stopped, but my brakes didn’t work

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I always tap the brake pedal when entering a read light, just to check the brakes.

[Peterphuket]

  On 1/7/2025 at 10:21 PM, watchcat said:

 

I always tap the brake pedal when entering a read light, just to check the brakes.

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Unlike the Thai, they mostly look on their mobile phone first, and yes even at a traffic light.

[hotchilli]

  On 1/7/2025 at 10:06 PM, Georgealbert said:

Initial investigations revealed that the 18-wheeler driver, identified as Mr. Komjit, 40, lost control of the vehicle when the brakes failed

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Dubious.

[AustinRacing]

The complete explanation is “braking failed to stop the car because I braked late as I was playing with my phone” rather than just “brake failure”. 

[billd766]

Did changing down the gearbox not work or was it not even tried?

 

In my old Ford Ranger pickup, I always double declutch and go down through the gearbox to use engine braking before using the footbrake I double declutch and change up the gearbox as I accelerate.

 I learnt that method 60 odd years ago on an old truck with a 5 speed gearbox and a 2 speed rear axle.

[1happykamper]

Another irresponsible moron behind the wheel in thailand. Never telling the truth.. 

 

Thailand brakes having a failure rate 1000x more than usa 🤣🤣🤣. 

[digger70]

  On 1/8/2025 at 5:56 AM, hotchilli said:

Dubious.

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Yep the same story , believe it or Not.

[BangkokReady]

  On 1/7/2025 at 10:21 PM, watchcat said:

I always tap the brake pedal when entering a read light, just to check the brakes.

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How does that help?  If it doesn't work what do you do?

[BangkokReady]

  On 1/7/2025 at 10:06 PM, Georgealbert said:

Behind the cab, six large CNG cylinders were located, prompting authorities to cordon off the area and redirect traffic to prevent further danger.

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They need to ban these things.  They appear to explode in flames every time they are involved in a crash.

[SiSePuede419]

  On 1/7/2025 at 10:06 PM, Georgealbert said:

my brakes didn’t work

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Brakes rarely fail suddenly and completely; such occurrences are uncommon and typically result from neglect or extreme circumstances. Here’s an explanation of how brake failures happen and their causes:

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1. Gradual vs. Sudden Brake Failure

Gradual Failure: Most brake issues develop over time due to wear and tear. Symptoms like squeaking, reduced responsiveness, or a "spongy" brake pedal usually provide warning signs.

Sudden Failure: This is rare but can happen due to specific mechanical or hydraulic failures, such as:

Brake Fluid Loss: A sudden rupture in a brake line or a master cylinder failure can cause a complete loss of braking power.

Catastrophic Component Failure: A snapped brake pedal, failed caliper, or seized drum can cause immediate loss of braking.

Overheating (Brake Fade): Extended braking on steep descents can overheat the brakes, temporarily reducing their effectiveness.

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2. Common Causes of Brake Failure

Neglected Maintenance: Ignoring brake pad replacement, fluid changes, or inspections can lead to failures.

Leaking Brake Fluid: A loss of hydraulic pressure results in brake system malfunction.

Worn-Out Brake Pads/Rotors: Excessive wear reduces the system's ability to generate friction.

Air in the Brake Lines: Air bubbles in the hydraulic system reduce braking efficiency.

Corrosion or Mechanical Damage: Rusted components or physical damage can impair the system.

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3. Safety Measures to Prevent Brake Failure

Regular Maintenance: Inspect brakes, change fluid, and replace worn components on schedule.

Monitor Warning Signs: Address unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in braking response immediately.

Use Engine Braking: On steep descents, downshift to reduce reliance on brakes and prevent overheating.

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4. What to Do in Case of Brake Failure

If brakes fail while driving, follow these steps:

1. Stay Calm and Shift Down: Use lower gears to slow the vehicle.

2. Use the Emergency Brake: Pull the parking brake gently to avoid skidding.

3. Steer to Safety: Look for an open area or soft barrier to reduce impact.

4. Pump the Brakes: In older, non-ABS systems, this might restore some pressure.

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While sudden brake failures are rare, they are dangerous when they occur. Regular inspections and prompt repairs can significantly reduce the likelihood of such incidents.

 

Sure, Jan. 😂

[watchcat]

  On 1/8/2025 at 10:20 AM, BangkokReady said:

 

How does that help?  If it doesn't work what do you do?

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Gives me time to pull over to the side of the road instead of colliding with cars in front of me.

[BangkokReady]

  On 1/8/2025 at 10:41 PM, watchcat said:

 

Gives me time to pull over to the side of the road instead of colliding with cars in front of me.

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Isn't pulling over without brakes crashing into whatever is at the side of the road?