Dangerous Roads: Thailand

Asia’s number one tourist destination, Thailand, is also one of the most dangerous countries when it comes to road safety. With more than 20,000 people killed on the asphalt every year, the “Land of Smiles” ranks second in the world’s most deadly roads.

An average of 55 deaths are recorded every day- The main victims are two-wheelers, which account for nearly three quarters of all fatalities. The cause is a “national” passion for speed, dangerous behavior, alcohol abuse and, above all, the optional use of helmets. Another major source of accidents are tuk tuks, the three-wheeled Thai vehicles typical of the region. Known as one of the most popular means of transport for tourists and locals alike, they are often the victims of impressive pile-ups.

Illegal speed races are also organized all over the country, sometimes in the middle of urban areas or on busy roads, as in Bangkok, the country’s capital. The result: accidents with often dramatic consequences, decimating entire families. Like that of Saraya, whose life was turned upside down when a car travelling over 100 km through the city center mowed down her husband and seriously injured her daughter. Her 5-year-old daughter has since become a quadriplegic. To help these road victims, Thailand relies on responsive emergency services.

But surprisingly, in Bangkok, the ambulance drivers are all volunteers. And they also have to buy their own equipment. For their part, the authorities are doing their utmost to curb the scourge of road insecurity. But with fines never exceeding 13 euros, regardless of speeding, and a problem of corruption within the police, it’s hard to change the bad habits of Thai drivers…