Thailand introduces stricter penalties against dangerous driving; To go after tuner shops selling illegal mods

On Monday (19-September-2022), Thai citizens saw a new set of road traffic penalties come into force. The penalties involve an increase in fines and jail terms. It will also see the Thai authorities go after parties such as tuner shops and illegal race organisers.

Amongst the amendments made include:

• THB 4,000 (~RM 490) fine for speeding, jumping traffic lights, or refusing to stop at zebra crossings
• THB 2,000 (~RM 250) fine for driving against traffic, not wearing a helmet, or not fastening the seat belt
• Up to 1 year in prison and/ or a fine of between THB 5,000 (~ RM 620) and THB 20,000 (~RM 2,500) for driving recklessly and putting other road users at risk
• Up to 1 year in prison and/ or a fine of between THB 5,000 (~RM 620) and THB 20,000 (~RM 2,500) for the first instance of drunk driving
• Up to 2 years in prison and/ or a THB 50,000 (~RM 6,200) – 100,000 (~RM 12,400) fine for repeated drunk driving offense

The new penalties will also see drivers who meet for racing, unlawfully modify their vehicles, or behave suspiciously with up to three months in prison and/ or a fine of THB 5,000 (~RM 620) to THB 10,000 (~RM 1,240).

That’s not all, the authorities can also issue a fine on tuner shops that illegally modify vehicles two-thirds of the penalty.

Race organisers and advertisers of illegal gatherings can also face up to six months in prison and/ or a fine of THB 10,000 (~RM 1,240) to THB 20,000 (~RM 2,500).

Closer to home, the Malaysian government only just amended the Road Transport Act (1987) in 2020 to impose stricter penalties on drivers caught driving under the influence.

Also read: Stricter penalties for driving under influence to take effect 23 October 2020