Bangkok: The Road Safety Center announced that over a six-day period, there were 241 fatalities resulting from 1,364 road accidents, with 1,313 individuals injured. Provinces have been urged to strictly enforce traffic laws, assist stranded public transport users, and facilitate safe travel.
According to Thai News Agency, on January 5, 2026, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) and the Road Safety Center provided a summary of road accident statistics for the New Year's holiday period of 2026. On this date alone, there were 175 accidents, leading to 174 injuries and 27 deaths. The cumulative statistics from December 30, 2025, to January 4, 2026, revealed a total of 1,364 accidents, 1,313 injuries, and 241 fatalities. Provinces have been instructed to enforce laws rigorously and monitor traffic to facilitate those returning home. Assistance is also being provided to citizens and tourists stranded at various transport hubs to ensure their safe and convenient travel.
Mr. Saharat Wongskulwiwat, Deputy Director-General of DDPM and Assistant Secretary of the Road Safety Command Center for the New Year Festival 2026, noted that the main causes of accidents included speeding and sudden lane changes, with motorcycles being the most involved vehicles. Narathiwat province recorded the highest number of accidents, injuries, and fatalities on January 5. The majority of accidents occurred on straight roads, primarily highways and local roads, with the highest incidence between 09:01 and 12:00.
The six-day summary indicated that Phuket had the highest number of cumulative accidents and injuries, while Bangkok reported the most fatalities. Seven provinces reported no fatalities during this period.
The Department of Rural Roads reported additional statistics, highlighting speeding and drunk driving as significant causes of accidents on rural highways. Motorcycles were again the predominant vehicle involved.
As the holiday period concluded, Mr. Saharat emphasized the need for continued vigilance in monitoring and enforcing traffic laws, particularly with many individuals returning to major cities. Measures such as setting up service points and checkpoints aim to deter risky driving behaviors. Agencies are also ensuring the readiness and safety of public transport vehicles.
Additionally, a weather forecast warns of potential high tides in several provinces, including Bangkok, advising travelers to exercise caution and avoid driving through affected areas.