It’s no surprise that Thailand is a lovely location to live. However, it is the world’s second most dangerous place to live in terms of road safety. While it may appear that driving on Thailand’s highways is highly safe, this is not the case.
So, if you’re driving in Thailand, here are a few safety tips to keep in mind.
1. Get a license!
Driving in the world’s second-most-fatal country could be risky. So, to be safe, take a driving exam to verify that you have the necessary license for your safety. This will not only keep you out of trouble with the law, but it will also help you learn to drive on risky routes.
2. Know the laws before getting on the road.
If you are new to driving on Thai roads, make sure you are familiar with all essential laws. Thailand’s road law system may differ from that of other countries. For example, while driving, a person is meant to be on the left side of the road, but while making a right turn, you should always be in the right lane. Knowing the road rules is beneficial not only to you but also to others on the road.
3. Be careful around the traffic lights.
One of the areas in Thailand where you must practice extreme caution is around traffic lights. People often drive in their own ways, and sometimes they take off before the lights turn green or even run red lights. As a result, keep an eye on both the road and the lights to ensure that you are crossing the roadways safely.
4. Check the weather report before stepping out.
Thailand’s weather can be unpredictable at times. Therefore, always check the weather forecast before leaving the house to ensure that you won’t have any problems while driving. The roads may be flooded during the rainy season. If you still need to go outside in any circumstance, keep an eye on the persons driving in front of you so that you can get a sense of where you are driving.
5. Safety always comes first.
Safety always comes first, whether you’re driving a car or riding a bike. When driving a car, always wear a seat belt, and when riding a bike, always wear a helmet. This will make sure to keep you safe from any fatalities on the road.
6. Always indicate others on the road.
Always make an effort to send others a signal when on the road. When making a turn or changing lanes, always use your vehicle’s indicator to alert others. Ensure there is enough space between vehicles so that the driver behind you is aware of your movements. Another way in which you can signal others is by using the horn.
7. Don’t drink and drive.
In most countries, drinking and driving are not permitted. However, while under the influence of something, Thai roadways can be riskier. Even if you are pretty comfortable on the roads, don’t take a chance because you never know what Thai roads will have on the road for you.