Is it safe to drive in Thailand? Learn about road safety in Chiang Mai
This is a valid concern. Chiang Mai has the highest rate of road accidents in Thailand, and Thailand has the highest amount of road accidents in the world!
The government has worked hard to improve requirements to get drivers licenses, including mandated driver training. However, there were 3,333 accidents on New Years holiday alone. It’s important to know the rules of the road to stay safe on the roads in Chiang Mai.
General Road Safety in Chiang Mai
People always ask, ‘is it safe to drive in Thailand?’ Well, the truth is that it is a ways behind in safety measures. Your family is going to see some crazy things! Fitting four generations and the family dog on a motorbike seems perfectly acceptable. So does travelling with your entire house contents strapped to your bike. Helmets? You may see many people not wearing them*. As for seat belts, wear them whenever they’re available.
Be aware of the pecking order
In Thailand, size matters! Sorry pedestrians, but you are just one step above soi dog. Looking both ways before you cross the street is always a smart idea, but certainly don’t expect motorbikes or cars to slow down for you. If anything, they will speed up to get around you faster.
Look right, then left!
We did mention look both ways, right?! Very important as most of us, especially the little ones, are used to cars driving on the other side of the road.
Road Safety in Chiang Mai – Traffic Laws in Chiang Mai
While there are traffic laws in Chiang Mai, you will notice they are rarely followed nor enforced. Lines on the road? Suggestions. One way streets? Sure, but if it’s quicker to reach a destination that way, the driver will take it. Driving backwards on the highway? I’ve seen it too many times to count. Speed limits are also taken as suggestions. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for motorbikes that zip around town.
Keep those senses sharp and the kiddos close and you’ll be just fine. Soon you’ll be shaking your head like a local sighing ‘TIT’, This Is Thailand.
Do we need a car seat in Chiang Mai?
Car seats are not required for infants, toddlers or children. It is common to see people holding babies in their arms or children bouncing around inside vehicles. Car seat use is becoming more popular and if you needed one, they are available to purchase at most of the major malls. If you decide to rent a car, it is possible to request a car seat.
*Both helmets and seat belts are required by law. We highly recommend you don’t do as the locals do in this case! Wear those helmets and insist on seat belts!
