Driving in Thailand

There is a good network of well maintained highways and roads between major towns and most of the north-south route is dual carriageway. Road signs follow international standards and are in both English and Thai. Motorists drive on the left hand side of the road most of the time.

Heavy trucks dominate the main roads at night so night driving is not usually recommended as truck drivers in Thailand have little respect for cars. Tourist coaches often think they are driving Ferrari’s so be aware.

Outside of the major towns and around resort areas driving is both a safe and pleasurable experience. There much to see and enjoy Pattaya suburbia and the Chonburi region is full of interesting places to visit.

The maximum speed limit in cities and towns is 60km per hour and varies between 90 and 120km per hour on main and country road outside the city centers and the police apply regular speed checks. Seat belts are compulsory and drink drive laws apply which makes insurance invalid if drivers exceed the legal limit.

All kinds of fuel are readily available with petrol stations being in plentiful supply. Most of the larger ones will accept major international credit cards. In remote locations cash will be needed.

All drivers must hold a current, non-probationary license either Thai or from their own country but if it is not Thai or English they must carry an English translation or an International driving license. A valid passport must be carried at all times. You will need a Thai driving license as opposed to an international drivers license once you have been in Thailand for more than 3 months.

If you get stopped by the police you will almost definitely get a fine of about B400, about £6, but if you are lucky it will be just B200, or £3. To get stopped you have done something wrong ‘maybe’ even if you don't know what it was! It is advisable to discreetly pay the money and never argue or lose your temper as it will cost your more.. Don’t expect a receipt for the money and you will never know if it is a genuine fine or whether it is being pocketed for that special occasion.

When parking your car if double parked, never put your handbrake on (only where the car won't roll) it is quite normal to double or triple park, therefore blocking other people in. If you find yourself blocked in, all you need do is simply push the other cars out the way!! Never park in front of railings or a curb, which are painted red and white, the car may not be there on you return!

WARNING

Driving habits in Thailand are shocking and most drivers are quite irresponsible and totally ignore the most basic and simple safety rules. In contrast to the Thai’s very polite, caring and non-confrontational manner many become suicidal with no regard whatsoever for other drivers on the road, especially the young people on motor cycles, I swear they have a death wish!

Be very wary of your speed and use every visual aid at your disposal, always check every direction before turning. Look well ahead on highways and one way streets they will come towards you on the wrong side for sure – heart stabilizing pills are a must. Unlike many Western countries, it is easy to pass a driving test here or even buy a license, many of the drivers have little or no experience at all. This is changing with many checks and Police road blocks daily in the attempt to eradicate this problem but I fear it could take some time.

Be a BOY SCOUT and be prepared, they will pull out in front of you without looking, stop with no warning, overtake, undertake go in any which direction suits them to arrive the quickest way possible even drive on the pavements to escape traffic jam’s.

Accidents are a way of life here in Pattaya and when they occur the offender will never admit fault, even when it’s obvious or even when there are witnesses and to make it worse often the offender will have no insurance especially if it is a motor cyclist.

Should the worst happen, the Police and Ambulance services are exceptional and quick to the scene, but be prepared for extensive negotiations before a settlement is resolved. As a guest of "Thailand Holiday Homes" do not negotiate or agree anything, call us, we are experts on the case.

In summary do not drive at night, park in a remote area when in superstore car parks, drive slowly and be aware looking left, right and behind at all times, as well as ahead of course – on a serious matter do not drink and drive – if you have an accident after drinking and someone dies you may not leave Thailand – period!