Bangkok: The Road Safety Center recently reported a concerning rise in road accidents during the New Year holiday period, with 171 fatalities and 956 injuries recorded over the past four days.
According to Thai News Agency, the center has emphasized the need for stricter measures to accommodate the influx of travelers returning home, underscoring the severe penalties associated with drunk driving, which is not covered by insurance.
Pol. Gen. Ruttapol Naowarat, Minister of Justice, chaired a press conference where he disclosed the statistics compiled by the Road Accident Prevention and Reduction Center for January 3, 2026. The "Safe Driving, Reduce Speed, Reduce Accidents" campaign documented 187 accidents, resulting in 185 injuries and 21 fatalities on that day alone. Speeding and drunk driving were identified as the leading causes, contributing to 35.29% and 21.39% of accidents, respectively.
The analysis also revealed that motorcycles were involved in 72.94% of accidents, predominantly occurring on straight roads, with highways and local roads bearing the brunt. The highest incidence of accidents was recorded between 3:01 PM and 6:00 PM, predominantly affecting individuals aged 20-29. Prachinburi and Phatthalung provinces were noted for the highest number of accidents, while Phatthalung had the most injuries, and Bueng Kan reported the highest fatalities.
Further examination of the four-day period from December 30, 2025, to January 2, 2026, showed 991 accidents, with Phuket experiencing the highest number of incidents and injuries, and Bangkok recording the most fatalities. Pol. Lt. Gen. Ruttapol highlighted that drunk driving remains a significant cause of fatalities, with 1,349 out of 1,401 cases in the probation process related to this offense. Nonthaburi province had the highest number of drunk driving cases.
In response, the Road Safety Command Center and the Department of Probation have intensified efforts to prosecute offenders, incorporating behavioral rehabilitation programs to reduce reoffending. Drunk driving offenders entering the probation process are required to perform community service to raise safety awareness. Repeat offenders face imprisonment, fines, and license suspensions, with harsher penalties if accidents result in injury or death.
As the holiday period draws to a close, a significant number of travelers are expected to return to Bangkok, leading to increased traffic on major routes. The Road Safety Center has coordinated with local authorities to enhance safety measures, including setting up service points and checking public transport readiness. The public is urged to avoid drunk driving and utilize alternative transportation options for safety.
The Office of the Insurance Commission has expedited compensation for accident victims, with data indicating 186 fatalities during the period. The OIC has been active in providing compensation and raising awareness about insurance coverage, particularly for motorcycles, which are frequently involved in accidents.
Mr. Teerapat Khachamat, Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, emphasized the importance of pre-travel preparations, such as checking insurance and avoiding risky behaviors. The Road Safety Center reiterates that exceeding the legal blood alcohol limit results in severe penalties and lack of insurance coverage, ensuring a safe journey for those returning from the holidays.