Report Gecko Blamed as Toll Booth Malfunction Damages Car in Thailand

[snoop1130]

Screenshots from @tk_nxd TikTok video

 

A routine drive through a Thai toll booth took an unexpected turn for a woman in Bang Pakong district, Chachoengsao province, when a gecko allegedly caused a malfunction, resulting in an automatic barricade dropping onto her car. The peculiar incident occurred on Saturday, May 31, as the woman navigated the automatic lane, designed for swift vehicle passage once the light turns green.

 

Dashcam footage, later shared on TikTok, captures the moment the green light signaled the woman to proceed. However, as she advanced, the barricade unexpectedly descended, striking her vehicle and leaving visible scratches on the hood. The force of the impact dislodged the barrier, creating a startling experience for the driver and causing her to stop abruptly.

 

A security guard quickly arrived on the scene, directing her to pull over for assistance. Initially, the tollway company responsible distanced themselves from the incident, attributing the malfunction to a gecko interfering with the sensor. They advised the woman to contact her insurance provider, citing past attempts to deter the reptiles with chemicals, albeit unsuccessfully.

 

 

Discontent with the company's response, the woman shared her dashcam footage online to caution other drivers and highlight the unusual situation. Her post quickly gained attention, sparking comments and sharing similar toll booth tales. One commenter humorously noted, "First time I’ve heard of gecko-induced car damage, only in Thailand!"

 

Following the viral backlash, reported by ThaiRath, the tollway company revised their stance. They are now willing to cover the cost of the vehicle repairs, stepping away from their initial gecko defence. Initially requesting the woman file a police report, the company's shift seems aimed at mitigating public relations fallout from the viral story.

 

This episode serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges drivers might face and highlights the power of social media in influencing corporate accountability.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-10

 

 

[lordgrinz]

Thank god for dashcams, well worth the investment (front and back cameras), I wouldn't even drive in Thailand without them installed.