PATTAYA, Thailand – Amid ongoing concerns over road safety, residents are advocating for more effective measures to address reckless motorcycle driving in the city. Current enforcement strategies, such as random stops at junctions, are perceived as insufficient in curbing dangerous behaviors on the roads.
Citizens suggest that law enforcement should focus on apprehending motorcyclists who engage in reckless driving, including speeding and illegal maneuvers. For serious offenses, they propose the confiscation of motorcycles as a deterrent. Additionally, the implementation of video surveillance, similar to systems used for monitoring speeding cars, could aid in identifying and prosecuting reckless drivers.
Recent reports highlight the persistent issue of loud motorcycles and helmet law violations in Pattaya and Jomtien, underscoring the need for stricter enforcement and safer streets.
In a previous initiative, Pattaya police employed an unconventional approach by assigning physical exercises, such as push-ups, to traffic offenders instead of fines. This method aimed to instill traffic discipline among young riders.
Despite these efforts, challenges persist. Speed limits in Pattaya are often disregarded, particularly by motorcyclists, due to factors such as inconsistent law enforcement and a prevailing culture of reckless riding.
Residents believe that by focusing on targeted enforcement against reckless drivers and utilizing technology for monitoring, Pattaya can enhance road safety and reduce traffic-related incidents.
(Photos – A pickup truck collided with multiple parked vehicles on Pattaya Third Road, heading towards North Pattaya Road, on January 31. Several motorcycles were also struck and left scattered across the scene. The driver was taken for a blood alcohol test, which revealed a level exceeding 100 mg %.)
