Picture courtesy of Khoasod.

 

A dramatic incident unfolded in Pattaya when a water truck suffered brake failure and veered off course, crashing into a electric pole. The quick-thinking driver is being praised for his decisive action, which likely prevented a much more serious accident.

 

 

The crash occurred at approximately 14:55 on 30 April, near the entrance of Sukhumvit Soi 89, also known as Soi Thung Klom Tan Man. Rescue units from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation responded promptly to the emergency call and rushed to the scene.

 

Emergency responders found a blue Isuzu six-wheel truck, fitted with a water tank, with its front severely crumpled after crashing into the power pole. The driver, identified as 35-year-old Mr Thanaphon Jermchim, sustained only minor injuries and was able to speak with police at the scene.

 

The impact also damaged a roadside direction sign, a CCTV pole, and a traffic control cabinet. Traffic police worked to ease congestion in the area, which saw a build-up of vehicles during the busy afternoon period.

 

Mr Thanaphon told police that he had just delivered water and was leaving Soi Sukhumvit 89 when the vehicle’s brakes suddenly failed. Seeing multiple cars ahead and realising a potentially fatal collision was imminent, he made the split-second decision to steer the truck into the power pole to protect other road users.

 

“If I hadn’t swerved, I would’ve crashed into the main road traffic,” he said. “Someone could have been seriously hurt.”

 

 

Officers documented the scene and will examine CCTV footage as part of their investigation into the cause of the crash.

 

Authorities commended the driver’s presence of mind, which may have prevented a major tragedy.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-01.

 

 

 

 

If brakes fail, that was probably the best he could do. At least no casualties. 

4 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

Authorities commended the driver’s presence of mind, which may have prevented a major tragedy.

I bet they don't check why the brakes failed.

18 hours ago, mikebell said:

I bet they don't check why the brakes failed.

Probably because he has never ever checked the brake fluid or pads?

On 4/30/2025 at 11:31 PM, Georgealbert said:

A dramatic incident unfolded in Pattaya when a water truck suffered brake failure and veered off course,

 

He should have a talk with his mechanic.