Thailand Faces 40 Road Deaths Daily as Drunk Driving Persists. Thailand's road crisis is making headlines as civil society groups highlight the grim reality of 40 fatalities daily and losses reaching 600 billion baht annually. These groups are advocating for tough measures against drunk drivers, including vehicle confiscation during the New Year 2026. ASEAN NOW

 

Thailand's road crisis is making headlines as civil society groups highlight the grim reality of 40 fatalities daily and losses reaching 600 billion baht annually. These groups are advocating for tough measures against drunk drivers, including vehicle confiscation during the New Year 2026.

 

In the lead-up to the upcoming New Year festivities, civil society networks, including the Foundation Against Drunk Driving, are raising alarm over the surge in road deaths, particularly during the "seven dangerous days."

 

On 22 December 2025, these networks presented a proposal to Mr. Ittiporn Kaewthip, the Attorney General, calling for vehicle confiscation from drunk drivers and tougher penalties for alcohol-related offences. They also demand stricter enforcement against those selling alcohol to minors and a push for legislative changes to increase legal repercussions for dangerous driving.

 

Experts, including Mr. Surasit Silapngam, manager of the Foundation Against Drunk Driving, stress the urgency, citing an annual loss of 500-600 billion baht due to road accidents. Drunk driving is identified as the leading cause. Relaxed alcohol regulations that allow sales until late hours have heightened concerns, potentially increasing road risks. The government's current stance on alcohol sales presents a challenge amidst efforts to improve road safety.

 

In the future, civil society groups are prepared to back legal actions that treat drunk driving as a serious threat to public safety. They are also calling for widespread public awareness campaigns on the consequences of drunk driving and vehicle confiscation. Proposed amendments to the Traffic Act would impose more severe penalties for drunk driving causing death, ensuring offenders face prison time without probation. Collaborative efforts with both government and private sectors aim to radically reduce road traffic incidents related to alcohol, reported Siam Rath.

 

 

Key Takeaways:

• Civil society groups press for severe measures against drunk drivers, seeking vehicle confiscation and harsher penalties.
• Relaxed alcohol laws may exacerbate road risks during high-traffic periods like the New Year.
• Advocacy for legal amendments and public awareness campaigns aims at long-term road safety.

Related Stories:

Thailand Set to Enforce Stricter Penalties for Drunk Driving

Harsher Penalties for "Drunk Driving and Repeat Offenders" Demanded

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-12-23