PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand has recorded 71 road deaths in just two days of the Songkran holiday period, with speeding identified as the leading cause, according to the Road Safety Operation Center.
Dr. Sophon Iamsirithaworn, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Public Health, revealed the figures during a briefing on April 11, marking the second day of the nationwide road safety campaign.
Authorities reported 208 accidents on the day, resulting in 185 injuries and 50 deaths.
Key findings:
Speeding: 45.71% (leading cause)
Drink driving: 24.76%
Dangerous cutting-in: 19.05%
Motorcycles accounted for 61% of accidents, with most crashes occurring on highways (48.56%) and straight roads (79.05%), pointing to the risks of high-speed travel.
The deadliest time period was between 9:01 AM and 12:00 PM, accounting for 21.9% of incidents.
Two-day cumulative (April 10–11):
344 accidents
317 injuries
71 deaths
While still high, the toll represents a decline from 2025, when 81 deaths were recorded over the same period.
Dr. Sophon noted that more than half of those killed died before reaching hospital, reflecting the severity of crashes—often linked to excessive speed and failure to use safety gear. Over 62% of victims were not using protective equipment, including helmets and seatbelts.
Authorities are increasing monitoring in both travel routes and Songkran water-play zones, urging motorists to slow down and strictly follow traffic laws to prevent further loss of life. (TNA)
