Bangkok: The Road Safety Center has reported a significant death toll over the five-day New Year period, with a total of 207 fatalities resulting from road accidents. This alarming figure comes in conjunction with 1,185 accidents and 1,141 injuries recorded during the same time frame. In response, authorities are making preparations for the influx of returning travelers by setting up checkpoints and enforcing strict regulations against risky driving behaviors such as speeding and drowsy driving.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pattana Phromphat, the Minister of Public Health, chaired a press conference to summarize the efforts and outcomes of the Road Safety Center during the New Year's holiday period of 2026. The Road Accident Prevention and Reduction Center collaborated with various partner networks to compile statistics, revealing that the fifth day of the campaign alone saw 191 accidents, 188 injuries, and 27 fatalities. Speeding and sudden lane changes were identified as the leading causes of these accidents. Motorcycles were the most frequently involved vehicles, with accidents predominantly occurring on straight roads, highways, and local roads.
The cumulative statistics for the New Year period from December 30, 2025, to January 3, 2026, indicate that Phuket had the highest number of accidents and injuries, while Bangkok recorded the highest number of fatalities. Notably, nine provinces reported zero fatalities during this period.
Mr. Phatthana highlighted that a large number of people are expected to return to Bangkok and other major provinces, leading to heavy traffic on key routes. The Road Safety Center is urging local and provincial authorities to manage traffic effectively and ensure compliance with laws targeting risky driving behaviors. These efforts include setting up checkpoints and ensuring that public transport vehicles are in safe working condition.
The Ministry of Public Health has also prepared emergency medical services to support accident victims, deploying over 10,700 medical units nationwide. The implementation of the National Digital Emergency Medical Services system aims to enhance the efficiency of emergency response through advanced location tracking and communication tools. In addition, law enforcement efforts against violations of alcohol control laws continue, with a focus on reducing drunk driving incidents.
Mr. Teerapat Khachamat, Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, emphasized the need for continued vigilance against risky driving behaviors as travelers return to their destinations. The public is advised to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, adhere to traffic laws, and rest when necessary to prevent accidents. Weather conditions are also a concern, with scattered thunderstorms and potential flooding posing additional hazards in certain regions.