Malaysians Driving In Thailand Urged To Understand Local Rules To Avoid Accidents

JITRA, Feb 7 (Bernama) -- Malaysians planning to drive in Thailand are advised to understand the country’s driving culture and rules to avoid accidents.

Mohd Syafiq Johari, the managing director of Gothai.my Sdn Bhd, an insurance firm, warned that many drivers mistakenly assume that Thailand’s road rules are the same as Malaysia’s, which can lead to accidents and complications.

“This misunderstanding can cause problems if drivers are not alert,” he said when met today, pointing out that one key difference is at intersections where drivers must be extra cautious and not assume other road users will yield.

Mohd Syafiq also highlighted the risk of microsleep, which occurs when drivers become drowsy after long hours on the road.

“This is a common cause of accidents, especially for those driving long distances from the Klang Valley or even from Johor,” he added.

During school holidays, many Malaysians travel to southern Thailand, particularly to Hatyai and Songkhla, often driving straight to the Bukit Kayu Hitam border.

Mohd Syafiq stressed the importance of planning the journey and taking enough rest to avoid fatigue-related accidents.

With 20 years of experience providing insurance for travel to Thailand, he also emphasised that comprehensive insurance coverage is crucial to avoid financial strain in the event of an accident.

He recommended four types of insurance for drivers namely Compulsory Insurance (CI), Travel Insurance (TI), Voluntary Insurance (VI) and Extension 101 Insurance (E101).

“Opting for full insurance ensures comprehensive protection and prevent significant costs for hospital bills or compensation,” he said, noting that many Malaysians who choose basic insurance end up facing huge expenses after accidents.

-- BERNAMA