Bangkok: The Road Safety Center has reported a concerning number of road accidents coinciding with the Songkran Festival and Family Day celebrations, urging drivers to prioritize safety during this festive period.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) disclosed on April 14th that there have been 237 road accidents resulting in 224 injuries and 51 deaths. The department has emphasized caution during the Songkran water festival and Family Day, preparing for the anticipated influx of people returning to Bangkok. Mr. Yosapol Venukoset, Secretary-General of the Vocational Education Commission, who chaired the press conference summarizing the operations of the Road Accident Prevention and Reduction Center, revealed that the aforementioned statistics were collected as part of the "Safe Driving, Reduce Speed, Reduce Accidents" campaign on April 13, 2026.
The primary causes of these accidents were identified as speeding (41.77%) and drunk driving (27.43%), with motorcycles being involved in the majority of accidents (70.93%). Most incidents occurred on straight roads (75.53%), particularly within sub-districts or villages (36.29%), with the peak time for accidents recorded between 3:01 PM and 6:00 PM (20.25%). The age groups most affected were those between 20-29 and 30-39 years old, accounting for 17.82% of the casualties. The provinces of Chumphon and Chiang Rai reported the highest number of accidents (12 each), with Chumphon also having the highest number of injuries (13 people). Pathum Thani and Loei, on the other hand, recorded the highest fatalities (4 deaths each).
The four-day campaign from April 10-13, 2026, saw a total of 755 accidents, leading to 705 injuries and 154 fatalities. Lampang province recorded the highest cumulative number of accidents (33) and injuries (34), while Bangkok had the highest number of fatalities (8). Notably, 22 provinces reported zero fatalities during this period.
With today being recognized as "Family Day," traditional festivities include paying respects to elders and participating in temple activities. The Road Safety Center has instructed all provinces to enhance safety measures in water-playing areas and tourist attractions, enforcing laws against the 10 main traffic violations and curbing risky behaviors such as standing on the back of pickup trucks, using high-pressure water guns, and selling alcohol in event areas. The center advocates the establishment of "community checkpoints" and "family checkpoints" to deter risky behaviors, with coordination from local police to prosecute offenders if necessary.
Mr. Teerapat Khachamat, Director-General of the DDPM and Secretary of the Road Safety Committee, highlighted the high traffic volume due to both Songkran celebrations and people returning home. He instructed relevant agencies to manage traffic, especially on major roads under construction, and to set up checkpoints to prevent drowsy driving and rear-end collisions. Provincial transport offices are urged to inspect public transport vehicles and ensure drivers are sober, drug-free, and rested. Passengers are also advised to monitor drivers for unusual behavior.
The public is encouraged to report accidents through the 24-hour hotline 1784 or the Line account 'DDPM Emergency Reporting 1784' to receive immediate assistance.