145 road deaths in three days: authorities step up controls for New Year’s Eve returns
Thai authorities are taking a tougher stance in response to the continued high road toll during the 2026 New Year celebrations. The Road Safety Command Center has announced the immediate reinforcement of community checkpoints and surveillance measures on major roads, as interprovincial travel remains very heavy.
During a press briefing held on January 2, 2026 at 10:15 a.m. at the Department of Disaster Prevention and Management (DDPM), the DDPM released the figures for the third day of the national campaign “Drive carefully, reduce speed, reduce accidents”.
On January 1st alone, 326 accidents were recorded, resulting in 317 injuries and 54 deaths. Over the first three days of the prevention period (December 30, 2025 to January 1, 2026), the cumulative total stands at 798 accidents, 769 injuries, and 145 deaths.
Speed and alcohol are the leading causes.
According to Jirapong Thepithak, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and chairman of the press conference, excessive speed remains the leading cause of accidents (40.18%), followed by drunk driving (29.45%). Motorcycles are involved in nearly 77% of accidents, primarily on straight roads (78.22%).
Most accidents occur on national highways (36.81%) and local roads (29.75%), with a peak between midnight and 3 a.m. The victims are most often between 20 and 29 years old.
Phuket and Bangkok particularly affected
On January 2nd, Phuket recorded the highest number of accidents (16) and injuries (18), while Bangkok reported the highest number of deaths (7). Over the three days, Phuket remained at the top for accidents (34) and injuries (38), and Bangkok for cumulative deaths (12).
A massive return to the roads is expected.
As the long weekend continues, authorities anticipate a peak in traffic on January 4, with more than 700,000 vehicles – public transport and private cars – still present in the provinces and expected to return to Bangkok and major urban centers.
The DDPM has asked provinces, districts and local authorities to strengthen roadblocks, open special lanes, install more service points and strictly apply the repressive measures provided for in the so-called “10 risky behaviors” scheme, including speeding, alcohol and drowsy driving.
Increased vigilance in tourist areas
Saharat Wongsakulwivat, Deputy Director General of the DDPM, stressed the need for stricter controls in tourist areas hosting large numbers of foreigners. Local authorities were urged to intensify checks on driver’s licenses, alcohol testing, adherence to traffic laws, and the condition of road signs.
The authorities are finally calling on all users – Thais and foreigners alike – to buckle up, wear a helmet, maintain safe distances and avoid any risky driving, so that the beginning of 2026 will be marked by safety and not mourning.
Source: Gavroche