Traffic Phuket Family of 7 on Bike Sparks Safety Outrage

[webfact]

Picture via Facebook/ เหยี่ยวข่าว ภูเก็ต Newshawk Phuket

 

A shocking scene in Phuket has ignited online outrage after a photograph showed a couple precariously transporting five children on a single motorcycle. The image swiftly circulated on Thai social media, drawing attention to the alarming disregard for road safety.

 

Phuket Hotnews and Newshawk Phuket shared the image yesterday, July 6, with the question, “How many people can you count?” The photo, taken by motorist Samphan Naphattalung, captured the scene inside the Sam Kong Tunnel in Phuket’s Mueang district at 2.45pm.

 

In the snapshot, one child is perched in front of the father, who is riding the vehicle, while another sits beside him holding a younger sibling. The mother sits at the back, balancing two small children. Notably, the young ones appear to be clinging on with feet dangerously close to the road surface.

 

Beyond the alarming number of passengers, this act has highlighted several legal breaches. Thai traffic laws prohibit motorcycles from using tunnels, making their choice of route illegal. Additionally, the lack of helmets for any family member further exacerbated safety concerns.

 

The reaction online varied, with some expressing sympathy. Many suggested the couple’s actions might stem from financial hardships, as they could be too poor to afford a car. These individuals urged compassion towards the family’s tough circumstances.

 

However, others took a firmer stance, asserting that poverty should not justify breaking the law. This camp emphasised that safety regulations exist to protect lives and should be observed regardless of personal circumstances.

 

Comments online included: “Safety should come first, finances aside,” and “This is reckless, laws exist for a reason.”

 

The incident raises broader questions about road safety awareness and enforcement in Thailand. It also shines a light on socioeconomic challenges faced by some families, potentially leading to risky choices.

 

Meanwhile, the debate continues, reflecting a divide in public opinion over safety compliance and empathy for personal struggles.

 

This case is not isolated, as similar scenes have unfolded on roads across Thailand. Authorities often face challenges enforcing traffic laws amid varying levels of public compliance and understanding.

 

Whether this incident leads to further action or policy changes remains to be seen.

 

In conclusion, the episode serves as a reminder of the fine balance between empathy and the necessity for adhering to established safety norms. 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-08

 

 

[JoePai]

Shocking, no helmets !!

[roo860]

For some families it's the only form of transport, nothing new.

[proton]

1 minute ago, roo860 said:

For some families it's the only form of transport, nothing new.

 

Transport to their cremations for some, insanity.

[NE1]

I wonder how many Police they passed and nothing was done about it ?

[novacova]

Shocking outrage!

[ChipButty]

27 minutes ago, NE1 said:

I wonder how many Police they passed and nothing was done about it ?

Maybe thats why they went through the tunnel as there is a police box on that junction, 

[Gottfrid]

Fools, with no regards for their children´s safety. It´s called making children without caring for them. Horrible behavior!

1 hour ago, roo860 said:

For some families it's the only form of transport, nothing new.

Sure it is, but you still have to use your brain. Either some will have to stay home, or they got to drive at least 2 times.

[ChipButty]

Should at least have a sidecar, 

[Will B Good]

 

Are we sure those kids are actually theirs?

[stevenl]

Was the photographer fined for using a mobile while driving?

[hotchilli]

9 hours ago, webfact said:

Beyond the alarming number of passengers, this act has highlighted several legal breaches. Thai traffic laws prohibit motorcycles from using tunnels, making their choice of route illegal. Additionally, the lack of helmets for any family member further exacerbated safety concerns

Welcome to Thailand where road safety is a myth.... do as you please and should you get stopped the police will negotiate a fine and let you go on your way.

[bwanajohn]

Yes if they can't afford a Benz they could at least get second hand Toyota.  Safety outrage..how about a 300 baht a day wage outrage.

[wensiensheng]

“A shocking scene in Phuket “

 

Everytime a photo like this is posted it’s described as shocking. It’s not. It’s normal and seen most days.

 

Look in the mirror Thai people and admit to yourselves the reality that exists on your roads. Do something about it, or quit whining and being shocked.

[LudwigK]

Is there a discount for NO HELMETS possible??

7X1000 baht !?

[klauskunkel]

9 hours ago, webfact said:

Many suggested the couple’s actions might stem from financial hardships, as they could be too poor to afford a car. These individuals urged compassion towards the family’s tough circumstances.

Well, apparently they can afford 5 children... So?

[khunPer]

In a way a sad photo of a family that might struggle to get financial ends to meet.

[quake]

You would think a police,

Would set a better example to us all. 

[Grumpy one]

6 hours ago, novacova said:

Shocking outrage!

Outriggers to help the balancing 

[Toby1947]

And if these clowns happen to run into a foreigner it will be the foreigner's fault and will need to pay. Brainless morons. 😡🤬

[Srikcir]

41 minutes ago, hotchilli said:

Welcome to Thailand where road safety is a myth.... do as you please and should you get stopped the police will negotiate a fine and let you go on your way.

Welcome to Thailand Where wealth distribution is highly uneven (worsened since the 2014 military coup) . "While about 0.1% of the population owns nearly half of the country's assets, a significant portion of the population lives in poverty. Specifically, it's estimated that the wealthiest 1% control 67% of the nation's wealth."

(Google)

[moskito]

6 hours ago, proton said:

 

Transport to their cremations for some, insanity.

up to them, isnt it? 
Why so many Foreigners belive its their business to judge them? 
Buy them a tuktuk or a car, i bet they would love to transport their family in a car instead like this!

[moskito]

10 minutes ago, Srikcir said:

Welcome to Thailand Where wealth distribution is highly uneven (worsened since the 2014 military coup) . "While about 0.1% of the population owns nearly half of the country's assets, a significant portion of the population lives in poverty. Specifically, it's estimated that the wealthiest 1% control 67% of the nation's wealth."

(Google)

hahhahahah ROFLMAO... another Thaksin follower?  I  was LOVING the Military took over the government in Thailand and lots of things have improved, may be things not visible to you but many Thais want the Military to come back! The only thing Thaksin did good was the 30.-Baht insurance sheme and making Phuket DRUG FREE as he promised. But he  was also great in becoming the 7th richest guy on the planet regarding to FORBES..wonder how he did this. I am living in Thailand since 27years and i know no people living on the streets or starving... BUT i can give you a lot of examples from western so called civilised countries lead by USAmerica where i wittnessed more homeless and poor people as in ALL Asian cities combined incl. Bombay°! 

[ChrisKC]

7 hours ago, roo860 said:

For some families it's the only form of transport, nothing new.

Its new to me - my previously seen  highest number was six!

[black tabby12345]

6 hours ago, novacova said:

Shocking outrage!

 

Risky wisdom...

[black tabby12345]

7 on motorcycle?

No wonder car sales! go down...

[PETERTHEEATER]

8 hours ago, JoePai said:

Shocking, no helmets !!

With 5 kids his helmet has been otherwise occupied.

[GreasyFingers]

3 hours ago, Toby1947 said:

And if these clowns happen to run into a foreigner it will be the foreigner's fault and will need to pay. Brainless morons. 😡🤬

You are a sick puppy.

[koele2]

They aren’t a danger to anyone but themselves.  What people should be complaining about are the drivers who speed and weave and tailgate and cut through traffic.  They are a danger and must be punished severely.  

[kiwikeith]

14 hours ago, roo860 said:

For some families it's the only form of transport, nothing new.

See it everyday cops ignore it, I think it's definitely related to poverty, but still reckless  ,I feel sorry for them 😐 at the same time and prey I never hit one of these reckless bike's