fbpx

--- Advertisement ---

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

New Road Safety Legislation Takes Effect

Road safety is a worry for us all. Is it really safe on the roads of Bangkok? Can we trust that taking a taxi or a minivan will result in a secure and safe ride? And can we rely on Thai authorities to enforce laws put in place to protect those using the roads?

On 21 March 2017, an unexpected but important announcement was released stating that all drivers and passengers of cars registered since April 1, 2012 and public transport vehicles (taxis, passenger vans and inter-provincial passenger buses) must fasten their seatbelts at all times.

The new seatbelt law comes into effect from 5 April 2017, the start of the Songkran period this year. The bid has been set out to attempt to prevent unnecessary deaths and accidents on the road.

So, what does this mean when we’re travelling on the roads this Songkran?

  • Firstly, those caught driving or carrying passengers that are not wearing seatbelts will entail a 500 to 5,000 baht fine; car owners who fail to pay the fines will not be able to renew the annual plate license registration of their vehicles.
  • This law applies to private cars, taxis, mini vans and trucks. If you’re taking a taxi and they don’t seem to have belts, take the time to check that they are not hidden under the seat cover or tucked away behind the seat; don’t hesitate to ask your driver about them. Other car hire options like Uber may be a safer choice in this regard as their cars would all have proper seatbelts.
  • For families, it should create a little reassurance that travelling around by road at this time will be slightly safer than usual, that combined with the reduction of celebrations due to the continued mourning period in Thailand.
  • A standard sedan taxi is only permitted to carry up to four people (it is not clear how children fit into this rule) so plan accordingly for larger parties.
  • No passenger is allowed to ride in the back of a pickup truck while travelling. There should be fewer people seen in the back of trucks, meaning less water being thrown from vehicles onto other vehicles.
  • Water can only be thrown from trucks if the truck is stationary and in a designated play area.
  • Finally, although mandatory seat belt laws have been in place for some time now, there is a new incentive to ensure that this is being upheld, and therefore, hopefully less reports of road accidents and deaths this year.

Many of us leave town over Songkran, or avoid driving around while the celebrations are taking place. However, these new laws are in for the long term and it’s important to be aware of and adhere to them as best as possible. While it’s unclear how they specifically apply to child safety (i.e., there is no mention of car seats or other child-safe restraints), it is ideal to buckle up with optimal safety measures such as car seats and booster seats.

Register your email address here and we’ll notify you when a new article gets uploaded.

Pssst... like what you're reading?

Join our community and never miss an event, post or update!

Just enter your email address below:

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

Follow Us!

Upcoming Events

Space Journey Bangkok 2024

BITEC Bangna Khwaeng Bang Na, Khet Bang Na, Bangkok, Thailand

  ⭐️ Experience the greatest, the first in Asia with "SPACE JOURNEY BANGKOK", the ultimate world-class space exhibition. Let's create inspiration together from December 16, 2024 - April 16, 2025 […]

Please Contact

Noddy by Elizabeth International Playgroup – Toddler Playgroup

Noddy by Elizabeth - International Playgroup ซอยเย็นอากาศ 2 แยก 3 ถนนเย็นอากาศ แขวงช่องนนทรี เขตยานนาวา,, Bangkok, Thailand

Let your little one enjoy the perfect mix of play and learning! Join our toddler playgroup where your 1-3 year olds can experience indoor activities, outdoor adventures, and fun story […]

฿400

Bangkok Dolphins – Term 2

Bangkok Dolphins The Racquet Club Sukumvit 49/9 Wattana, Bangkok, Thailand

New term starting January 7 and running through to April 12, 2025 Contact us to enroll, Saturday and Sunday are filling up fast! Enroll here: https://bangkokdolphins.com/.../swimming-lessons-term-2.../ Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/bangkokdolphins Website […]

Please Contact

Alliance Française de Bangkok – Dance Courses

Alliance Française de Bangkok 179 Witthayu road, Khwaeng Lumphini, Khet Pathum Wan, Bangkok,, Bangkok, Thailand

Awaken your or your kids’ hidden talents! Calling all art lovers and aspiring artists! Our January 2025 artistic courses for kids & adults REGISTRATIONS ARE OPEN! Explore and develop your […]

Please Contact

BimBi.Italiani – Imparando L’Italiano

Salesian Sisters Foundation, Thailand Sala Daeng Rd, Si Lom, Bang Rak, Bangkok, Thailand

  Imparando L’Italiano Italian Language Laboratory Courses for Native Speaker Children Registrations Are Open in Bangkok, Thailand! Period: January – June 2025 Age Groups: 3-5 years and 6-10 years Location: […]

฿610 – ฿10455
Get The Latest Updates

Subscribe To Our Weekly Newsletter

Get the latest kid and family-friendly activities and events in your inbox every Thursday! No spam, guaranteed.

More information

You May Also Like...

No Nits: Tips for Handling Head Lice

Yes, head lice are gross, but don’t panic! They are a nuisance for sure, but definitely not a health hazard — and certainly not an indication of your household’s level of

Healthy eating for kids

5 Simple Ways to Get Your Kids Eating Healthy

Healthy eating is essential for your child’s good health, growth and development. Healthy eating in childhood means they will have less chance of developing chronic diseases like heart disease, type

Kids water flight

Songkran Camps for Kids in Bangkok

With the Songkran school holidays just around the corner, and summer not far on the horizon, many parents will be keen to find fun and rewarding activities for their children