Photo via CH7 News

An 80-year-old man crashed his car into a water factory in Trat province after a gear malfunction reportedly left him unable to brake. The incident occurred in Ban Nong Bua, Wang Krachae subdistrict, causing damage but no injuries. CCTV footage captured the black sedan smashing into motorcycles, water tanks, and the factory wall.

The accident happened when Mitr, the elderly driver, left a restaurant and experienced a malfunction with his automatic gear system. Unable to control the vehicle, he veered into the factory compound, hitting seven motorcycles parked along a fence. Emergency services arrived to find significant vehicle damage, shattered glass, and broken water bottles, but thankfully, no injuries were reported.

Mitr stayed at the scene and cooperated with police, explaining that he aimed to avoid greater harm. Police from Mueang Trat reviewed the footage and documented the crash. As of the last update, no charges were filed, and Mitr's family pledged to compensate for the damages.

This incident comes shortly after another elderly driver, aged 92, injured two students in Nonthaburi when his car collided with their motorcycle. These events raise concerns about road safety and vehicle maintenance standards for older drivers. Experts might urge authorities to review policies surrounding elderly driving and vehicle checks.

Looking forward, Mitr's relatives plan to handle compensation matters, while police continue their investigation. Discussions on improving road safety guidelines for older drivers could potentially emerge as a result of these incidents, reported The Thaiger.

Key Takeaways

• An 80-year-old crashed into a Trat factory due to a gear malfunction.

• No one was injured, but seven motorcycles and the factory suffered damage.

• Compensation for damages is planned, and police are investigating.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2026-01-23

 

 

So he hit the accelerator instead of the brake and then panicked...

... typical response to blame anything else but himself... "Oh.. it wasn't me - the car malfunctioned !!".... 🤥

5 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

after a gear malfunction

I suspect a 'what is between the ear' malfunction is far more likely than a gear malfunction.

I can't see what sort of gear malfunction could cause brake failure. Hitting the "go" pedal instead of the "stop" pedal is more likely.

Elderly people should get a proper check up every year before renew the license.. Not the health certificate by a doctor who ask How are you are you healthy?? ok here is the certificate.. a very proper test with sight, reactions, and ECG and EEG etc

7 minutes ago, ikke1959 said:

Elderly people should get a proper check up every year before renew the license.. Not the health certificate by a doctor who ask How are you are you healthy?? ok here is the certificate.. a very proper test with sight, reactions, and ECG and EEG etc

Agreed... My father still drives and really shouldn't...

Over Christmas, we were looking at something in dull light - he couldn't see what it was.

There are hedge scratches on the side of the car.

I don't condone drink driving in the slightest - but arguably his age has impaired him more than a 30 year old on 5 pints...

I agree - after a certain age, there really should be a genuine 'fit to drive' medical exam - but also, IF not fit to drive, better alternatives need to be in place for mobility - i.e. subsidised taxi's etc.