PATTAYA, Thailand – Despite being one of the most visited countries in the world, Thailand continues to face a persistent and deadly problem: the lack of safety on its long-distance and tourist buses. The recent tragedy on the steep descent of Pu Thon Shrine Hill in Prachinburi, where a bus’s brakes failed and caused a fiery crash that killed seven and injured 53, is just the latest in a long series of horrific incidents. And the saddest part? It’s far from surprising.
Thailand’s road fatality rate remains among the highest in the world. While much of the focus has been on motorcycles, buses—particularly those operating on interprovincial or overnight routes—are frequently involved in deadly crashes. Often, the cause is a combination of mechanical failure, driver fatigue, and dangerously poor infrastructure. Many of the buses still in circulation are old, poorly maintained, and riddled with safety issues. Brakes fail, tires wear thin, and emergency exits are sometimes blocked or non-functional. Regulations exist but are unevenly enforced, and in some cases, blatantly ignored due to corruption or cost-cutting by operators.
Drivers often work long shifts for little pay, and the pressure to stay on schedule means speed is prioritized over safety. Some lack proper training for handling difficult routes—especially mountainous roads like the one where this recent accident occurred. Pu Thon Hill is notorious for its steep decline and winding curves, yet little has been done to make it safer, despite multiple fatal accidents there over the years.
The tragedy is compounded by the fact that tourists, unfamiliar with the country’s road safety reputation, often unknowingly put themselves at risk. Many assume that the buses here are on par with those in Europe, Australia, or North America. In reality, what seems like a budget-friendly way to travel can quickly turn into a nightmare. In cities like Pattaya, which draw millions of domestic and international visitors, long-distance buses and minibuses are still a popular transportation choice. But the journey can be dangerous, especially if one unknowingly boards a poorly maintained vehicle or travels with a reckless driver.
While tourists can’t fix Thailand’s broken transport oversight, there are choices that can reduce risk. Booking through well-reviewed, reputable companies helps. Avoiding overnight travel—when accidents due to fatigue are more common—is a safer bet. Even small actions, like checking if a seatbelt is available and functional, or refusing to board a vehicle that feels unsafe, can make a difference. Many travelers are now choosing alternate methods, like trains or private taxis, for routes like Bangkok to Pattaya, especially when cost is weighed against peace of mind.
Ultimately, though, the responsibility must shift back to the system itself. It’s time for real reform—tighter inspections, stronger driver regulations, infrastructure improvements in danger zones, and meaningful consequences for companies that cut corners. Until then, Thailand’s roads will continue to be a gamble, and travelers will keep paying the price.
