Traffic Confusing Bangkok Traffic Sign Sparks Online Debate

[webfact]

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

A traffic sign on Bangkok’s bustling Sukhumvit Road, close to Thong Lo, has got social media buzzing with debate and confusion.

 

The sign shows directional arrows: the right lane must turn right, the left lane is solely for going straight, but the middle lane is marked with both straight and right-turn arrows. This has left drivers perplexed -– should you stop and wait in the middle lane if you intend to turn right?

 

Approaching the intersection, the road markings change from white dashed to solid white lines, which indicates no overtaking or lane change, strictly follow the signs! So, what's the rule here?

 

It turns out that drivers in the middle lane can indeed stop at a red light to wait for a right turn. Even if the light is green for straight but not for right, waiting in the middle lane is okay until the right turn is safe and authorised, as reported by the Bangkok Post.

 

Bangkok is no stranger to chaotic traffic, with congestion a common sight, especially during peak hours. The city is attempting to tackle this by improving road signage and encouraging the use of public transport to ease the pressure on the roads.

 

To avoid confusion and ensure a smoother journey through the city's hectic streets, motorists should pay close attention to traffic signs.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-08-08

 

[josephbloggs]

It's not confusing at all, it is perfectly logical, as are the painted arrows on the road.

We have the same on Pattanakarn in to soi 25. Sign is clear, road markings are clear. You still get beeped at for waiting to turn right in the lane that has straight and right.

I saw this article in the Bangkok Post and wondered why, it couldn't be clearer or more logical.

 

[Artisi]

Clear as a bell.