New Road Safety Initiative

[yorkie100]

There are some interesting thoughts on this thread.

Let me ask you what you would do with regard to law breaking and bribery in the following scenario?

I have been stopped for speeding four times in Thailand (mainland around Hua Hin and also in Issaan, not in Samui).

Every time I was breaking the law, I admit and therefore deserve whatever punishment the law deems necessary.

Also, every time I was given the choice of either getting a ticket, having my driving licence impounded until the fine was paid, going to the police station and paying the fine (probably around 400-500 bahts) or, giving the BIB 200 bahts there and then and 'on my way'.

You have broken the law, you should go and pay the official fine even if it adds two hours to your already long and tedious journey. You should not encourage or consider paying off the BIB.

What would you do?

I have been stopped on Samui twice by the BIB.

First for not having an up to date tax disc (guilty) in Maenam and was given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid (400 bahts).

Second for parking within 50 metres of a junction (ring road Chaweng), again given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid.(400 bahts) and that took two hours in Chaweng Police station.

Cynics on TV will no doubt say that my Samui fines will end up in back pockets, maybe, but at least I was given an official numbered document unlike the mainland.

[BigC]

There are some interesting thoughts on this thread.

Let me ask you what you would do with regard to law breaking and bribery in the following scenario?

I have been stopped for speeding four times in Thailand (mainland around Hua Hin and also in Issaan, not in Samui).

Every time I was breaking the law, I admit and therefore deserve whatever punishment the law deems necessary.

Also, every time I was given the choice of either getting a ticket, having my driving licence impounded until the fine was paid, going to the police station and paying the fine (probably around 400-500 bahts) or, giving the BIB 200 bahts there and then and 'on my way'.

You have broken the law, you should go and pay the official fine even if it adds two hours to your already long and tedious journey. You should not encourage or consider paying off the BIB.

What would you do?

I have been stopped on Samui twice by the BIB.

First for not having an up to date tax disc (guilty) in Maenam and was given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid (400 bahts).

Second for parking within 50 metres of a junction (ring road Chaweng), again given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid.(400 bahts) and that took two hours in Chaweng Police station.

Cynics on TV will no doubt say that my Samui fines will end up in back pockets, maybe, but at least I was given an official numbered document unlike the mainland.

i half agree. i don't minde paying a tip to save me time but if i have done nothing wrong and i am stiched up and have to pay for something i haven't done or pushed into going somewhere just so someone cann make some extra commission then corruption is bad.

though i have been studying corruption in different countries and comparing it. In some cases giving police the power to fill there own pockets and give green lights to surtain cases actually make the streets safer. for example u can do your dirty bisiness as long as it is not out in the open annd no guns ( example )

Then for countries like brition where they give no lee way. the law is the law ( by the book ) then the line between criminals and police becomes very thick and un controlable.

As for people that need to dis oppear. i mean how many no good criminals in the UK who know the law and get found not guilty time after time. after mountains of police work and time.

The rest of the story u can work out yourselves.

basically depends on how u look at it.

there again in countries like pakistaan where the securty forces take money for everything like letting bombs into hotels. then corruption is very bad. basically it does nnot work in war countries.

in those situation the public do not trust the govement and turn to relgion then become extremists.

But in a country where entertainment is the main attraction. then if the game is played right the everyone can be happy and in a way corruption is like buying freedome.

[Gulfsailor]

There are some interesting thoughts on this thread.

Let me ask you what you would do with regard to law breaking and bribery in the following scenario?

I have been stopped for speeding four times in Thailand (mainland around Hua Hin and also in Issaan, not in Samui).

Every time I was breaking the law, I admit and therefore deserve whatever punishment the law deems necessary.

Also, every time I was given the choice of either getting a ticket, having my driving licence impounded until the fine was paid, going to the police station and paying the fine (probably around 400-500 bahts) or, giving the BIB 200 bahts there and then and 'on my way'.

You have broken the law, you should go and pay the official fine even if it adds two hours to your already long and tedious journey. You should not encourage or consider paying off the BIB.

What would you do?

I have been stopped on Samui twice by the BIB.

First for not having an up to date tax disc (guilty) in Maenam and was given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid (400 bahts).

Second for parking within 50 metres of a junction (ring road Chaweng), again given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid.(400 bahts) and that took two hours in Chaweng Police station.

Cynics on TV will no doubt say that my Samui fines will end up in back pockets, maybe, but at least I was given an official numbered document unlike the mainland.

I always refused to pay the bribes, but last year I was stopped just before Donsak, when going towards the ferry. Apperently I was driving in the right lane, which immediately changed to driving too fast, when I pointed out the that there was a car in the left lane that I was overtaking. Anyay, that single BiB refused to give back my license until I paid him 200 baht on the spot., or join him to the station in down town Surat Thani to pay the fine. The last option would make me miss the last ferry back to Samui, so I paid, feeling pretty upset about it, moreso, beacuse I was not speeding.

When home I checked what the law actually states and what should I have done:

1) A single cop could be a robbery. You do not have to stop. If they want to catch you, they will set up a roadblock further down the road, where you can explain you didn't trust the single BiB standing on the road. They will have to accept this. So just ignore a single BiB and swerve around him and continue on your way.

2) Licenseholder is responsible for his drivers licence and is not allowed to give it away. So the BiB cannot inpound your license. You have to show the license on the spot when asked by BiB, but keep it firmly in your hand. Don't let him take it.

3) If the BiB that stops you feels you did something wrong, then according to law you did (This is even so in most other countries, as a witness statement from a police offer has more merit than that of a citizen or the accused himself). So unless you have some kind of proof (on-board video registration, inpartial witnesses, etc) you will have to pay the fine.

4) You do not have to pay the fine on the spot!!!! They will issue you a ticket and then you have to pay within 7 days at any police station, at post office or 7-11.

So regarding your question: "What would you do?"

If it is a legit roadbock then I;

1) Would show my license, but keep it firmly in hand.

2) When presented with the accusation, ask for an offical ticket, to pay later.

3) When being pressed to pay on the spot, I always mention my wallet is empty and will explain the law to the copper and accept the invitation to visit the police station to sort things out. I would pick up the phone and call my lawyer to join me. This normally has them backing of immediately.

Well, good lcuk my fellow road users.

[robsamui]

There are some interesting thoughts on this thread.

Let me ask you what you would do with regard to law breaking and bribery in the following scenario?

I have been stopped for speeding four times in Thailand (mainland around Hua Hin and also in Issaan, not in Samui).

Every time I was breaking the law, I admit and therefore deserve whatever punishment the law deems necessary.

Also, every time I was given the choice of either getting a ticket, having my driving licence impounded until the fine was paid, going to the police station and paying the fine (probably around 400-500 bahts) or, giving the BIB 200 bahts there and then and 'on my way'.

You have broken the law, you should go and pay the official fine even if it adds two hours to your already long and tedious journey. You should not encourage or consider paying off the BIB.

What would you do?

I have been stopped on Samui twice by the BIB.

First for not having an up to date tax disc (guilty) in Maenam and was given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid (400 bahts).

Second for parking within 50 metres of a junction (ring road Chaweng), again given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid.(400 bahts) and that took two hours in Chaweng Police station.

Cynics on TV will no doubt say that my Samui fines will end up in back pockets, maybe, but at least I was given an official numbered document unlike the mainland.

I always refused to pay the bribes, but last year I was stopped just before Donsak, when going towards the ferry. Apperently I was driving in the right lane, which immediately changed to driving too fast, when I pointed out the that there was a car in the left lane that I was overtaking. Anyay, that single BiB refused to give back my license until I paid him 200 baht on the spot., or join him to the station in down town Surat Thani to pay the fine. The last option would make me miss the last ferry back to Samui, so I paid, feeling pretty upset about it, moreso, beacuse I was not speeding.

When home I checked what the law actually states and what should I have done:

1) A single cop could be a robbery. You do not have to stop. If they want to catch you, they will set up a roadblock further down the road, where you can explain you didn't trust the single BiB standing on the road. They will have to accept this. So just ignore a single BiB and swerve around him and continue on your way.

2) Licenseholder is responsible for his drivers licence and is not allowed to give it away. So the BiB cannot inpound your license. You have to show the license on the spot when asked by BiB, but keep it firmly in your hand. Don't let him take it.

3) If the BiB that stops you feels you did something wrong, then according to law you did (This is even so in most other countries, as a witness statement from a police offer has more merit than that of a citizen or the accused himself). So unless you have some kind of proof (on-board video registration, inpartial witnesses, etc) you will have to pay the fine.

4) You do not have to pay the fine on the spot!!!! They will issue you a ticket and then you have to pay within 7 days at any police station, at post office or 7-11.

So regarding your question: "What would you do?"

If it is a legit roadbock then I;

1) Would show my license, but keep it firmly in hand.

2) When presented with the accusation, ask for an offical ticket, to pay later.

3) When being pressed to pay on the spot, I always mention my wallet is empty and will explain the law to the copper and accept the invitation to visit the police station to sort things out. I would pick up the phone and call my lawyer to join me. This normally has them backing of immediately.

Well, good lcuk my fellow road users.

Thanks for the insight into the technicalities/legalities of the situation - most useful.

BUT I have this puckered feeling that if I was to suddenly start challenging the 'authority' of the police like this then the rulebook would appear equally suddenly out of thin air and all those long-established laws that are never enforced would be lined up end to end and it would not only involved a prolonged visit to Surat Thani but a fair amount of cash also!

Best to sigh and pay, I reckon!

R

[robsamui]

There are some interesting thoughts on this thread.

Let me ask you what you would do with regard to law breaking and bribery in the following scenario?

I have been stopped for speeding four times in Thailand (mainland around Hua Hin and also in Issaan, not in Samui).

Every time I was breaking the law, I admit and therefore deserve whatever punishment the law deems necessary.

Also, every time I was given the choice of either getting a ticket, having my driving licence impounded until the fine was paid, going to the police station and paying the fine (probably around 400-500 bahts) or, giving the BIB 200 bahts there and then and 'on my way'.

You have broken the law, you should go and pay the official fine even if it adds two hours to your already long and tedious journey. You should not encourage or consider paying off the BIB.

What would you do?

I have been stopped on Samui twice by the BIB.

First for not having an up to date tax disc (guilty) in Maenam and was given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid (400 bahts).

Second for parking within 50 metres of a junction (ring road Chaweng), again given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid.(400 bahts) and that took two hours in Chaweng Police station.

Cynics on TV will no doubt say that my Samui fines will end up in back pockets, maybe, but at least I was given an official numbered document unlike the mainland.

I always refused to pay the bribes, but last year I was stopped just before Donsak, when going towards the ferry. Apperently I was driving in the right lane, which immediately changed to driving too fast, when I pointed out the that there was a car in the left lane that I was overtaking. Anyay, that single BiB refused to give back my license until I paid him 200 baht on the spot., or join him to the station in down town Surat Thani to pay the fine. The last option would make me miss the last ferry back to Samui, so I paid, feeling pretty upset about it, moreso, beacuse I was not speeding.

When home I checked what the law actually states and what should I have done:

1) A single cop could be a robbery. You do not have to stop. If they want to catch you, they will set up a roadblock further down the road, where you can explain you didn't trust the single BiB standing on the road. They will have to accept this. So just ignore a single BiB and swerve around him and continue on your way.

2) Licenseholder is responsible for his drivers licence and is not allowed to give it away. So the BiB cannot inpound your license. You have to show the license on the spot when asked by BiB, but keep it firmly in your hand. Don't let him take it.

3) If the BiB that stops you feels you did something wrong, then according to law you did (This is even so in most other countries, as a witness statement from a police offer has more merit than that of a citizen or the accused himself). So unless you have some kind of proof (on-board video registration, inpartial witnesses, etc) you will have to pay the fine.

4) You do not have to pay the fine on the spot!!!! They will issue you a ticket and then you have to pay within 7 days at any police station, at post office or 7-11.

On Samui you're not allowed to take your vehicle and proceed upon your way until you have paid the fine and showed the receipt to the officer in charge of guarding all the frozen cars and bikes. Presumably if you decided to pay at 7-11 5 days later you'd have to walk there and walk again to find the police station that has your keys and presume also that somebody might have remembered where they put your bike ...

R

Edited January 26, 2011 by robsamui

[H2oDunc]

Rob can you post the link to the place where you checked up that states you do not have to stop for a single copper, no handing over license etc as I find this a bit hard to believe is written into law Just curious

[Boater]

Rob can you post the link to the place where you checked up that states you do not have to stop for a single copper, no handing over license etc as I find this a bit hard to believe is written into law Just curious

never watch Police Academy ?

[Gulfsailor]

Rob can you post the link to the place where you checked up that states you do not have to stop for a single copper, no handing over license etc as I find this a bit hard to believe is written into law Just curious

Well, that you best not stop for a single BiB was told to me by a lawyer. Can't find anything written in the law specifically about it.

In section 140 and 141 of the Land Traffic Act of 1979, it actually states that the officer may impound a license upon issueing a ticket. However, he then is required to give you a temporary replacement license that is valid fro no longer than 7 days. Since it is highly unlikely he can create this next to the road, he cannot imppound you license. The 7 days is the time you have to pay your ticket, either at the police station or via money-order or bankcheque (although now in modern times more payment options are available. Best to check the actual ticket, although I never had the pleasure to actaully see a real ticket! )

Nowhere in the entire act, is there any mentioning of an officer being allowed to impound a vehicle!

I do agree with Rob though, that really acting like a know-all towards some BiB, might invoke a more serious investigation into other aspects... Which I don't really mind. Nothing illegal to find in my case. And in many cases, just a hint of being an unwilling target, will prevent future harassment.

I heard of a guy that has a habit of speeding, but refuses to pay bribes. The police always try, but he drives away with a formal ticket and a round hole in his license ??? Somehow a few of these holes do a great deal in preventing other BiB to get tea money from you. They'd rather find an easier victim. I need to find out the shape and size of sucha a hole and create some in my license...

[BigC]

Thanks for the insight into the technicalities/legalities of the situation - most useful.

BUT I have this puckered feeling that if I was to suddenly start challenging the 'authority' of the police like this then the rulebook would appear equally suddenly out of thin air and all those long-established laws that are never enforced would be lined up end to end and it would not only involved a prolonged visit to Surat Thani but a fair amount of cash also!

Best to sigh and pay, I reckon!

R

agreed paying 200 baht might save u the trouble of having a parcel found in your car that u did not know u had. u cannopt beat the police at their own game. they have been doing this for years. the only thing u can do is get in as less trouble as possible.

ust pay up 200 baht. copper gets a drink u get on your way none is too un happy or too happy :jap:

[Gulfsailor]

Thanks for the insight into the technicalities/legalities of the situation - most useful.

BUT I have this puckered feeling that if I was to suddenly start challenging the 'authority' of the police like this then the rulebook would appear equally suddenly out of thin air and all those long-established laws that are never enforced would be lined up end to end and it would not only involved a prolonged visit to Surat Thani but a fair amount of cash also!

Best to sigh and pay, I reckon!

R

agreed paying 200 baht might save u the trouble of having a parcel found in your car that u did not know u had. u cannopt beat the police at their own game. they have been doing this for years. the only thing u can do is get in as less trouble as possible.

ust pay up 200 baht. copper gets a drink u get on your way none is too un happy or too happy :jap:

You share this believe and attitude with too many unfortunately, both Thai and foreigner. That is what keeps the corruption practices alive. Just stand your ground! If we all did, this corruption would be a thing of the past in no time. By the way, if you do not allow the BiB to search your vehicle, they cannot. Just know the law and if you adhere to it, they can't do anything to you...

[smokie36]

Thanks for the insight into the technicalities/legalities of the situation - most useful.

BUT I have this puckered feeling that if I was to suddenly start challenging the 'authority' of the police like this then the rulebook would appear equally suddenly out of thin air and all those long-established laws that are never enforced would be lined up end to end and it would not only involved a prolonged visit to Surat Thani but a fair amount of cash also!

Best to sigh and pay, I reckon!

R

agreed paying 200 baht might save u the trouble of having a parcel found in your car that u did not know u had. u cannopt beat the police at their own game. they have been doing this for years. the only thing u can do is get in as less trouble as possible.

ust pay up 200 baht. copper gets a drink u get on your way none is too un happy or too happy :jap:

You share this believe and attitude with too many unfortunately, both Thai and foreigner. That is what keeps the corruption practices alive. Just stand your ground! If we all did, this corruption would be a thing of the past in no time. By the way, if you do not allow the BiB to search your vehicle, they cannot. Just know the law and if you adhere to it, they can't do anything to you...

We'd all I'm sure like to see a link to the point of law which says they cannot search your vehicle. (In English if possible).

Not trying to detract from what you're saying but to see it in back and white myself would give far more confidence. Thanks.

[yogya]

Nothing will change! Why? Because the police get alredy enough teamoney from shop owners, bars, taxis, songteos, discos.

Did I forget somebody who has to pay the Royal Thai Police at Samui every month?

TIT but Samui is worse

[BigC]

Nothing will change! Why? Because the police get alredy enough teamoney from shop owners, bars, taxis, songteos, discos.

Did I forget somebody who has to pay the Royal Thai Police at Samui every month?

TIT but Samui is worse

yep agreed. that and a whole lot more !

[carmine]

There are some interesting thoughts on this thread.

Let me ask you what you would do with regard to law breaking and bribery in the following scenario?

I have been stopped for speeding four times in Thailand (mainland around Hua Hin and also in Issaan, not in Samui).

Every time I was breaking the law, I admit and therefore deserve whatever punishment the law deems necessary.

Also, every time I was given the choice of either getting a ticket, having my driving licence impounded until the fine was paid, going to the police station and paying the fine (probably around 400-500 bahts) or, giving the BIB 200 bahts there and then and 'on my way'.

You have broken the law, you should go and pay the official fine even if it adds two hours to your already long and tedious journey. You should not encourage or consider paying off the BIB.

What would you do?

I have been stopped on Samui twice by the BIB.

First for not having an up to date tax disc (guilty) in Maenam and was given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid (400 bahts).

Second for parking within 50 metres of a junction (ring road Chaweng), again given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid.(400 bahts) and that took two hours in Chaweng Police station.

Cynics on TV will no doubt say that my Samui fines will end up in back pockets, maybe, but at least I was given an official numbered document unlike the mainland.

I always refused to pay the bribes, but last year I was stopped just before Donsak, when going towards the ferry. Apperently I was driving in the right lane, which immediately changed to driving too fast, when I pointed out the that there was a car in the left lane that I was overtaking. Anyay, that single BiB refused to give back my license until I paid him 200 baht on the spot., or join him to the station in down town Surat Thani to pay the fine. The last option would make me miss the last ferry back to Samui, so I paid, feeling pretty upset about it, moreso, beacuse I was not speeding.

When home I checked what the law actually states and what should I have done:

1) A single cop could be a robbery. You do not have to stop. If they want to catch you, they will set up a roadblock further down the road, where you can explain you didn't trust the single BiB standing on the road. They will have to accept this. So just ignore a single BiB and swerve around him and continue on your way.

2) Licenseholder is responsible for his drivers licence and is not allowed to give it away. So the BiB cannot inpound your license. You have to show the license on the spot when asked by BiB, but keep it firmly in your hand. Don't let him take it.

3) If the BiB that stops you feels you did something wrong, then according to law you did (This is even so in most other countries, as a witness statement from a police offer has more merit than that of a citizen or the accused himself). So unless you have some kind of proof (on-board video registration, inpartial witnesses, etc) you will have to pay the fine.

4) You do not have to pay the fine on the spot!!!! They will issue you a ticket and then you have to pay within 7 days at any police station, at post office or 7-11.

So regarding your question: "What would you do?"

If it is a legit roadbock then I;

1) Would show my license, but keep it firmly in hand.

2) When presented with the accusation, ask for an offical ticket, to pay later.

3) When being pressed to pay on the spot, I always mention my wallet is empty and will explain the law to the copper and accept the invitation to visit the police station to sort things out. I would pick up the phone and call my lawyer to join me. This normally has them backing of immediately.

Well, good lcuk my fellow road users.

Thanks, useful info.

So, if you are involved in an accident, are the BIB allowed to take your license. I say this because its a favourite to take the license, threaten to withhold it until the Thai (who has caused the accident) is weighed in with a totally disproportionate sum of money, compared to the real cost of damage.

i think this would be very useful to have clarified.

[Rooo]

Thanks, useful info.

So, if you are involved in an accident, are the BIB allowed to take your license. I say this because its a favourite to take the license, threaten to withhold it until the Thai (who has caused the accident) is weighed in with a totally disproportionate sum of money, compared to the real cost of damage.

i think this would be very useful to have clarified.

In this situation Carmine, I would call my lawyer & insurance CO.I would never admit anything or hand anything in case of an accident.

Edited January 27, 2011 by Rooo

[Gulfsailor]

There are some interesting thoughts on this thread.

Let me ask you what you would do with regard to law breaking and bribery in the following scenario?

I have been stopped for speeding four times in Thailand (mainland around Hua Hin and also in Issaan, not in Samui).

Every time I was breaking the law, I admit and therefore deserve whatever punishment the law deems necessary.

Also, every time I was given the choice of either getting a ticket, having my driving licence impounded until the fine was paid, going to the police station and paying the fine (probably around 400-500 bahts) or, giving the BIB 200 bahts there and then and 'on my way'.

You have broken the law, you should go and pay the official fine even if it adds two hours to your already long and tedious journey. You should not encourage or consider paying off the BIB.

What would you do?

I have been stopped on Samui twice by the BIB.

First for not having an up to date tax disc (guilty) in Maenam and was given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid (400 bahts).

Second for parking within 50 metres of a junction (ring road Chaweng), again given a ticket and my licence impounded until I paid.(400 bahts) and that took two hours in Chaweng Police station.

Cynics on TV will no doubt say that my Samui fines will end up in back pockets, maybe, but at least I was given an official numbered document unlike the mainland.

I always refused to pay the bribes, but last year I was stopped just before Donsak, when going towards the ferry. Apperently I was driving in the right lane, which immediately changed to driving too fast, when I pointed out the that there was a car in the left lane that I was overtaking. Anyay, that single BiB refused to give back my license until I paid him 200 baht on the spot., or join him to the station in down town Surat Thani to pay the fine. The last option would make me miss the last ferry back to Samui, so I paid, feeling pretty upset about it, moreso, beacuse I was not speeding.

When home I checked what the law actually states and what should I have done:

1) A single cop could be a robbery. You do not have to stop. If they want to catch you, they will set up a roadblock further down the road, where you can explain you didn't trust the single BiB standing on the road. They will have to accept this. So just ignore a single BiB and swerve around him and continue on your way.

2) Licenseholder is responsible for his drivers licence and is not allowed to give it away. So the BiB cannot inpound your license. You have to show the license on the spot when asked by BiB, but keep it firmly in your hand. Don't let him take it.

3) If the BiB that stops you feels you did something wrong, then according to law you did (This is even so in most other countries, as a witness statement from a police offer has more merit than that of a citizen or the accused himself). So unless you have some kind of proof (on-board video registration, inpartial witnesses, etc) you will have to pay the fine.

4) You do not have to pay the fine on the spot!!!! They will issue you a ticket and then you have to pay within 7 days at any police station, at post office or 7-11.

So regarding your question: "What would you do?"

If it is a legit roadbock then I;

1) Would show my license, but keep it firmly in hand.

2) When presented with the accusation, ask for an offical ticket, to pay later.

3) When being pressed to pay on the spot, I always mention my wallet is empty and will explain the law to the copper and accept the invitation to visit the police station to sort things out. I would pick up the phone and call my lawyer to join me. This normally has them backing of immediately.

Well, good lcuk my fellow road users.

Thanks, useful info.

So, if you are involved in an accident, are the BIB allowed to take your license. I say this because its a favourite to take the license, threaten to withhold it until the Thai (who has caused the accident) is weighed in with a totally disproportionate sum of money, compared to the real cost of damage.

i think this would be very useful to have clarified.

Best to ask these questions in the legal section or motoring section of this forum. Although I doubt it is legal for the BiB to do this, I am not sure. I am not a lawyer, just interested in Thai law. But would like to know this specific case. Fortunately I was never in an accident, but I am told to just call your insurance agent when having an accident and they will sort things out.

Regarding BiB search of your vehicle. I don't know where it states this in the law, but just ask Sunbelt (TV sponsor) and they will confrim, that without cause, warrant or consent, a search of private property (house, boat or car) is against your rights.

[robsamui]

Rob can you post the link to the place where you checked up that states you do not have to stop for a single copper, no handing over license etc as I find this a bit hard to believe is written into law Just curious

Not me dude - I was as intrigued as you are.

It was Gulfsailor who spake thus!

R

[robsamui]

Best to ask these questions in the legal section or motoring section of this forum. Although I doubt it is legal for the BiB to do this, I am not sure. I am not a lawyer, just interested in Thai law. But would like to know this specific case. Fortunately I was never in an accident, but I am told to just call your insurance agent when having an accident and they will sort things out.

Regarding BiB search of your vehicle. I don't know where it states this in the law, but just ask Sunbelt (TV sponsor) and they will confrim, that without cause, warrant or consent, a search of private property (house, boat or car) is against your rights.

So does that mean that every time there is a spot check and the BIB want to search your vehicle you can tell them to go poke a stick in their eye?

If anyone is planning to assert their rights in this way PM me and I'll give you my phone number - I want to get there and see what happens to you!

R

[BigC]

Thanks for the insight into the technicalities/legalities of the situation - most useful.

BUT I have this puckered feeling that if I was to suddenly start challenging the 'authority' of the police like this then the rulebook would appear equally suddenly out of thin air and all those long-established laws that are never enforced would be lined up end to end and it would not only involved a prolonged visit to Surat Thani but a fair amount of cash also!

Best to sigh and pay, I reckon!

R

agreed paying 200 baht might save u the trouble of having a parcel found in your car that u did not know u had. u cannopt beat the police at their own game. they have been doing this for years. the only thing u can do is get in as less trouble as possible.

ust pay up 200 baht. copper gets a drink u get on your way none is too un happy or too happy :jap:

You share this believe and attitude with too many unfortunately, both Thai and foreigner. That is what keeps the corruption practices alive. Just stand your ground! If we all did, this corruption would be a thing of the past in no time. By the way, if you do not allow the BiB to search your vehicle, they cannot. Just know the law and if you adhere to it, they can't do anything to you...

i am sorry but i know the law that the BIB cannot search your car without a warrent but unfortualty for my friend the law did not matter. what is boils down to is that there are more of them then there are u and when the police write the statement then without a translater u can sign anything unless u can read and write in thai

[BigC]

the police already have a signed document from a judge to start the check point

anyway in some case corruption in my opimum can be a not too bad thing. i know people that have been stiched up in the west by legal red type and they were completly innocent!