Law Refusing Breathalyser Test Now Equals Drunk Driving, Say Police

[webfact]

File photo for reference only

 

In a dramatic legal update, Thai authorities have declared that drivers who refuse a breathalyser test will be treated as if they were driving under the influence. This bold move comes after a high-profile incident involving actress Marie Braun, 33, and renowned businessman Atchamon Singsikornkul. Marie repeatedly refused to comply when stopped at an alcohol checkpoint, sparking discussions on the consequences set by this new regulation.

 

According to the Central Investigation Bureau's official page, drivers who decline the breath test will be presumed guilty of drink-driving under the Traffic Act B.E. 2542, Section 142.

 

This legal presumption means stiff penalties could be enforced. Offenders may face imprisonment of up to one year or fines ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 Thai baht. Additionally, the court could choose to suspend or even revoke driving licences for a minimum of six months under Section 43(2) of the same Act.

 

The severity of these measures also extends to treating the refusal as disobedience of a police order, reported Matichon Online.

 

Authorities emphasise that this could have harsher legal repercussions, affecting individuals who might not have consumed alcohol at all. The law intends to deter drink-driving by imposing severe penalties as a preventative measure, aiming to enhance road safety in Thailand.

 

The authorities' commitment to combating drunk driving is evident as discussions about this regulation gain momentum. The decision to equate breath test refusal with drink-driving underlines the importance placed on road safety and law enforcement in the country.

 

As debates continue, the implications of this legislation hold significant consequences for drivers across Thailand. With potential legal repercussions, drivers are urged to comply with breathalyser requests to avoid harsh penalties.

 

This new law marks a pivotal moment in Thailand's road safety regulations, aiming to deter reckless behaviour and enhance public safety.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon Online 2025-08-25

 

[VR333]

The same as in countries like Australia. Automatic mandatory licence suspension and/or heavy financial penalty for refusal. It's the sensible option.

 

 

[ikke1959]

If you have nothing to hide why should not to do the test??? If you refuse you admit you have been drinking probably too much too, So normal reaction of the police...and if the driver says I did not drink but I refuse the test , he is the one who has to prove that he did not drink in some other way.

[motdaeng]

32 minutes ago, webfact said:

In a dramatic legal update, Thai authorities have declared that drivers who refuse a breathalyser test will be treated as if they were driving under the influence.

... does this also apply to the rich and influential people ... probably not ... 

[BritManToo]

Run and hide for 24hrs still works!

[petedk]

58 minutes ago, webfact said:

fines ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 Thai baht.

 

That is nothing for many of wealthy as I am sure they spend that amount on a dinner with alcohol.  Suspending or revoking their license will hurt them more.