Good information on the Thai driving laws translated into English.
http://www.bkkriders.com is an old site that's been defunct for quite a few years, but still contains some valuable information. Reckon it would be a good idea to copy this to GT-Rider before the site disappears.
http://www.bkkriders.com/law/index.html
The links cover:
Introduction
Driver's Handbook
Topics
International Driving Permit
Registration, Tax and Insurance
Legal Documents
Traffic Offense Points System
Law Texts
Land Traffic Act
traffic rules
Motor Vehicle Act
vehicle registration, annual tax, driver's license
Protection for Motor Vehicle Accident Victims Act
compulsory insurance
ref. Compulsory Insurance Policy / Example
Ministerial Regulations
regarding above laws
International Treaties
ASEAN Treaties
Driver's License, Vehicle Passage, etc.
ref. Customs Procedures in ASEAN Countries
United Nations Conventions
Thai Land Traffic Act is below:
http://www.bkkriders.com/law/landtraffic.html
back to Bits of Law Bangkok Riders Club
Source:
Title: Land Traffic Act B.E. 2522
ISBN: 9-7450-3994-2
Price: 120B
Brackets indicate an abridged text.
Parentheses indicate the maximum fine.
Land Traffic Act
B.E. 2522 (1979)
Contents
Title 1: Use of Vehicles
Title 2: Traffic Signals and Traffic Signs
Title 3: Use of Roadways
1. Vehicle Driving
2. Overtaking and Passing
3. Starting off, Turning and Turning Around Vehicles
4. Stopping and Parking Vehicles
Title 4: Use of Roadways with Traffic Lanes
Title 5: Prescriptions of Speeds of Vehicles
Title 6: Driving through Junctions or Circles
Title 7: Emergency Vehicles
Title 8: Towing or Pulling Vehicles
Title 9: Accidents
Title 10: Bicycles
Title 11: Passenger Vehicles
Title 12: Taxis
Title 13: Pedestrians
Title 14: Animals and Articles in Ways
Title 15: Horse-Drawn Carriages and Bullock Carts
Title 16: Safety Zone
Title 17: Miscellaneous
Title 18: Power of the Traffic Officer and Competent Officer
Title 19: Penalty Provisions
Section 1
This Act is to be called Land Traffic Act, B.E. 2522.
Section 2
This Act shall come into force 90 days after its publication in the Government Gazette.
Section 3
The following shall be repealed:
a. Land Traffic Act B.E. 2477 (1934)
b. Land Traffic Amendment Act,, B.E. 2478 (1935)
c. Land Traffic Act , B.E. 2481 (1938)
d. Land Traffic Act , B.E. 2508 (1965)
e. Announcement of the Revolutionary Party No. 59, January 29, B.E. 2515 (1972)
Section 4
[Definition of 40 legal terms, namely: Traffic, Way, Motorway, Motor lane, Bus lane, One-way street, Curbside, Road shoulder, Road junction, Circle, Footpath, Street crossing, Safety zone, Critical area, Vehicle, Automobile, Motorcycle, Bicycle, Emergency vehicle, Truck, Passenger vehicle, School bus, Bus, Taxi, Tow-truck, Trailer, Taximeter, Driver, Pedestrian, Vehicle owner, Conductor, Driving license, Traffic signal, Traffic sign, Minister, Director general, Traffic officer, Competent officer, Traffic volunteer, Inspector.]
Automobile means a vehicle that has three wheels or more and driven by an engine power or electric or other power, except vehicle running on rails.
Motorcycle means a vehicle that is driven by an engine power or electric or other power and has not more than two wheels and, if attached by a side-car, has not more than an additional wheel.
Driving license means a license to drive an automobile under the law on automobile, a driver's license under the law on vehicles for rent, a driving license under the law on wheeled vehicles, and a license of an operator of the transportation equipment under the law on transportation.
Section 5
The Minister of Interior shall be in charge and control of the execution of this Act and shall have the power to appoint traffic officers and issue Ministerial Regulations prescribing other activities for the execution of this Act.
Ministerial Regulations shall come into force upon publication in the Government Gazette.
Title 1: Use of Vehicles
Section 6 (500B)
[Vehicles used on roads must be properly maintained according to regulations, so that they don't cause harm or danger to the public.]
Section 7 (1000B)
[Cars and motorcycles must have vehicle registration plates (license plates) when in use on the road.]
Section 8 (500B)
[A vehicle must allow the driver enough range of vision.]
Section 9 (500B)
[A vehicle must not scrape the road.]
Section 10 (500B)
[A vehicle must not emit gas, dust, smoke, etc, exceeding the regulation.]
Section 11 (500B)
[If it gets dark and you cannot see clearly more than 150m, you must turn on the headlight.]
Section 12 (200B)
[Cars and motorcycles must have a horn which is audible from a distance of 60m.]
Section 13 (500B)
[Cars and motorcycles cannot use flash-light, siren signal, whistle signal, faltering sound, etc, except emergency vehicles, military and police vehicles, or when permitted by the regulation.]
Section 14 (500B)
[Cars and motorcycles can use the horn only when avoiding danger or accidents.]
Section 15 (1000B)
[When a vehicle carries something that's longer than the vehicle itself, a red light signal (night) or a red flag (day) must be fastened to the end of the protrusion, to be visible from a distance of 150m.]
Section 16 (1000B)
[If a truck carries inflammable liquid that flares up at 21C, or inflammable gas, it must have a red light signal (night) or red flag (day) to caution other vehicles.]
Section 17 (2000B and/or 1 month imprisonment)
[If a truck carries explosives, it must have placards naming the explosive substance, and fire-extinguishers.]
Section 18 (500B)
[A school bus, truck or passenger vehicle must comply with regulations as to the way to carry passengers, animals or loads.]
Section 19
[When it is necessary to carry passengers, animals or loads in a way not in accordance with regulations, the vehicle owner may request a police officer for a written temporary permission to ease the restriction.]
Section 20 (500B)
[A driver is responsible for not letting his passengers, animals, or loads to fall, leak, give out smell, reflect light, etc, which may cause harm or danger to the public.]
Title 2: Traffic Signals and Traffic Signs
Section 21 (1000B)
[The driver must comply with traffic signals and traffic signs.]
(def.
traffic signal: any signal by movement or showing or sending of a fire, electric light, hand, arm, whistle or by other means for drivers, pedestrians or persons who lead, ride or chase animals to comply with such a signal.
traffic sign: any sign installed or made conspicuous in a way for drivers, pedestrians or persons who lead, ride or chase animals to comply with such a sign.)
Section 22 (1000B)
[Meaning of traffic light:
Green: the driver may drive the vehicle through
Yellow: the driver shall prepare to stop the vehicle behind the stop line. If the driver has passed the stop line when the traffic light turns yellow, he may go through.
Red: the driver shall stop the vehicle behind the stop line.
Green Arrow: the driver shall drive according to the direction of the green arrow, but shall be careful to give way to crossing pedestrians or other vehicles.
Blinking Red: the driver shall stop at the stop line and, when it is seen safe, may proceed with care.
Blinking Yellow: the driver shall reduce the speed of the vehicle and proceed through the roadway carefully.]
The driver who is to drive the vehicle straight ahead shall keep to the traffic lane with a traffic sign indicating going straight ahead and the driver who is to turn the vehicle shall keep to the traffic lane with a traffic signal indicating turning. Entering into the said traffic lanes shall be made from where there is traffic sign indicating such.
Section 23 (1000B)
[If a traffic light indicates a "red cross" or green arrow on a specific lane, the driver on the lane shall comply with this sign.]
Section 24 (1000B)
a. When the competent officer stands and stretches out his left arm at the shoulder level, the driver who drives his vehicle from behind the competent officer shall stop his vehicle. But when the competent officer puts down his left hand and moves it forwards, he shall proceed with his vehicle.
b. When the competent officer stands and stretches out his right arm at the shoulder level with the palm open and upright, the driver of a vehicle coming from the direction to which the arm stretches out shall stop his vehicle. But when the competent officer turns the upright palm and moves it over his head backwards, he shall proceed with his vehicle.
c. When the competent officer stands and stretches out both arms at the shoulder level with the palm open and upright, the driver of the vehicles coming from the directions to which the arms stretch shall stop their vehicles.
d. When the competent officer stands and raises the lower part of the right arm at a right angle to the upper part with the palm open and upright, the driver who drives his vehicle from in front the competent officer shall stop his vehicle. But when the competent officer turns the upright palm and moves it backwards, he shall proceed with his vehicle.
e. When the competent officer stands and raises the lower part of the right arm at a right angle to the upper part with the palm open and upright and stretches out his left arm at the shoulder level, the drivers of vehicles coming from in front and behind the competent officer shall stop their vehicles.
The stopping of a vehicle under this Section shall be behind the line for vehicles to stop. In case no such line exists in a motorway, a driver of a vehicle shall stop his vehicle at not less distance than three meters from where the competent officer is standing.
Section 25 (1000B)
[Meaning of whistle signal by the police:
One long whistle: stop
Two short whistles: proceed.]
Section 26 (1000B)
[When a police officer gives traffic signals contrary to installed traffic signs or signals, the driver must comply with his signal.]
Section 27
[The Director General of the Police has the power to amend or modify traffic signs and signals.]
Section 28 (2000B and/or 1 month imprisonment)
[Unauthorized persons cannot install traffic signs or display traffic signals.]
Section 29 (1000B)
[No person shall damage, conceal, or obstruct traffic signs or traffic signals.]
Section 30
[The police officer may remove fake traffic signs (Section 28) or damaged traffic signs (Section 29).]
Title 3: Use of Roadways
1. Vehicle Driving
Section 31
[Unless otherwise stated in Section 65 and Section 66 concerning the bus lane, use of roadways shall be in accordance with following sections.]
Section 32
[The driver shall be careful not to hit pedestrians, and may use the horn if necessary. The driver shall be especially careful with children, elderly persons and disabled persons.]
Section 33 (500B)
[When driving, the driver shall keep to the left of the road and must not drive beyond the middle of the roadway, except following situations:
a. there is obstruction on the road
b. the road is prescribed as one-way
c. the road width is less than 6m.
Section 34 (500B)
[If the road is divided into two or more traffic lanes in the same direction, the driver shall keep to the outermost left-hand side lane. If the outermost left-hand side lane is a bus lane, the driver shall keep close to the bus lane. Except following situations:
a. there is obstruction on the road
b. the road is prescribed as one-way
c. it is necessary to enter the correct lane upon approaching a junction
d. when overtaking another vehicle
e. when driving faster than vehicles in the left-hand side lane.
Section 35 (400-1000B)
The driver of a truck, passenger vehicle, motorcycle, vehicle of low speed or traveling at lower speed than those of other vehicles moving in the same direction, shall keep to the curbside of the roadway as close as possible.
If such a roadway is divided into two or more traffic lanes in the same direction or has a bus lane specifically arranged on the left-hand side, the driver shall drive the vehicle in the outermost left-hand side lane or close to the bus lane, as the case may be.
Section 36 (500B)
[When a driver is to turn the vehicle, let another vehicle to overtake, change traffic lane, reduce speed or stop the vehicle, he shall display hand signal (Section 37) or light signal (Section 38). When the condition doesn't permit the visibility of hand signals (like at night), he must use the light signal.
The driver must display the hand signal or light signal not less distance than 60m before turning the vehicle, changing traffic lane, or stopping the vehicle.
The hand signal or light signal must be visible to other drivers at not less distance than 60m.]
Section 37 (500B)
[How to make hand signals:
a. to reduce speed, ...
b. to stop a vehicle, ...
c. to let another vehicle pass, ...
d. to turn the vehicle right, ...
e. to turn the vehicle left, ...]
In case that the automobile has its steering wheel at the left-hand side, the driver shall use light signals instead of hand signals.
Section 38 (500B)
The driver of an automobile or motorcycle shall display light signals as follows:
a. to stop the vehicle, ...
b. to turn the vehicle or change traffic lane, ...
c. to let another vehicle to overtake, the driver shall display amber light signal for turning or blinking red or amber light signal at the back and to the left of the vehicle.
Section 39 (500B)
[When two vehicles pass each other in the opposite direction, in order to avoid danger, each driver shall keep to the left-hand side of the roadway and, if necessary, reduce the speed. When the road is too narrow to pass each other, the driver of the bigger vehicle shall stop his vehicle close to the curbside and let the smaller vehicle pass. When there's an obstruction on the road, the driver on the lane with obstruction shall reduce speed or stop his vehicle to let another vehicle pass.]
Section 40 ( ? B)
[The driver shall keep a safe distance from another vehicle in front of him. When driving up a slope, he shall be careful not to let the vehicle slide backwards and crash another vehicle.]
Section 41 (500B)
[On a one-way road, the driver must follow its direction.]
Section 42 (500B)
The driver shall keep his vehicle close to the left-hand side of a roadway divided into two ways, one for the vehicles going up and the other for the vehicles coming down, with a dividing space in the middle or with a traffic sign indicating that the roadway being divided into two ways.
Section 43 (400-1000B)
No driver shall drive the vehicle:
a. while being incompetent to drive
b. while being intoxicated by liquor or other alcoholic drinks
c. in a manner that obstructs the traffic
d. with carelessness or recklessness which may cause danger to persons or property
e. in a manner not normally practiced in driving a vehicle or while unable to see the way in front or at the back or either/both sides clearly enough for safety
f. beyond or on the line dividing traffic lanes, except upon changing lanes, turning or turning around the vehicle
g. on a footpath without sufficient cause, except a baby-carriage or wheel-chair for sick or disabled persons
h. without thinking about the safety or suffering of other persons.
Section 43-2
[The driver cannot take narcotic drugs while driving. The police are authorized to examine such suspect drivers. If the driver refuses examination (1000B), the police can detain the driver for further investigation.]
(If found guilty of taking narcotic drugs, the punishment by the Law on Narcotic Drugs is raised by 1/3, and his driver's license may be suspended for not less than six months or revoked. If the driver causes a traffic accident while on drug, the penalty may be up to 6-year imprisonment and a fine up to 120,000B. -- Section 157-2)
Section 43-3
[The police can stop and examine drivers suspected of Section 43 a./b. (Refusal of the examination, 1000B)]
Section 43-4
[The police can send the driver who violates Section 43 a./b., or Section 43-2, to the "inquiry officer.]
Section 43-5
[In performing the duty in Section 43-2 and Section 43-3, the police officer must show the identity card that is issued according to the Land Traffic Act or Motor Car Act.]
2. Overtaking and Passing
Section 44 (500B)
A driver who wishes to overtake or pass another vehicle in the roadway with no traffic lane mark shall use sound signals loud enough to let the driver who is driving the vehicle in front know of his intention and, after the driver of the vehicle in front gives a responding signal pursuant to Section 37 c. or Section 38 c.(left blinker or corresponding hand signal), may proceed to overtake.
[When overtaking, the driver shall overtake from the right side, keep safe distance, and return to the left-hand side lane promptly.]
Section 45 (400-1000B)
[No driver shall overtake another vehicle from the left-side unless:
a. the vehicle to be overtaken is making a right turn or has given a signal that he is going to make a right turn
b. the roadway is arranged with two or more traffic lanes in the same direction.]
Section 46 (400-1000B)
[The driver shall not overtake another vehicle when:
a. driving up a slope, bridge or curve, except where there is a traffic sign permitting overtaking
b. within a distance of 30m from a pedestrian crossing, junction, circle (rotary) or railroad crossing
c. the fog, rain or dust prevents visibility of 60m
d. entering a congested area or safety zone.]
Section 47 (400-1000B)
No driver of a vehicle shall drive his vehicle to overtake or pass another vehicle by, in doing so, going beyond the roadway's middle line that is marked or where there is a traffic sign indicating a danger area or an area in which carefulness is required on the roadway.
In the event of the left-hand side traffic lane is obstructed while the traffic lane on the right-hand side has sufficient space, a driver of a vehicle may avoid the obstructions by driving his vehicle beyond the roadway's middle line prescribed by the traffic officer in so far as he does not obstruct the traffic of the vehicles moving in the opposite direction.
Section 48 (400-1000B)
[No driver shall enter the bus lane in order to overtake another vehicle, except when there's an obstacle ahead or guided by a police officer.]
Section 49 (1000B)
[Upon receiving a signal for overtaking from a vehicle immediately behind, on condition that the road ahead is safe and there's no vehicle coming from the opposite direction, the driver shall display a responding signal (left blinker or corresponding hand signal) and keep the vehicle close to the left to let the vehicle behind to pass.]
3. Starting off, Turning and Turning Around Vehicles
Section 50 (1000B)
A driver who starts off a vehicle shall, upon seeing that there is a parked vehicle or obstruction ahead, display hand and arm signals pursuant to Section 37 or light signals pursuant to Section 38 and shall proceed upon seeing that it is safe and he is not obstructing the traffic of other vehicles.
Section 51 (500B)
To turn left:
a. where no traffic lanes are arranged, the driver shall keep his vehicle close on the left-hand side of the roadway
b. where traffic lanes are arranged and there is a traffic sign directing a left turn, the driver shall enter the traffic lane for vehicles to make a left turn at not less distance than 30m before the turn-way
c. where a bus lane exists on the outermost left-hand side of the roadway, the driver shall keep his vehicle close to the bus lane at not less distance than 30m before the turn-way and shall make a turn across the bus lane only at the area where there is a traffic sign permitting such turn.
To turn right:
a. on a roadway with no traffic lane, the driver shall keep his vehicle close on the right-hand (sic) side of the middle line of the roadway at not less distance than 30m before the turn-way
b. on a roadway with two and more traffic lanes in one same direction, the driver shall keep the vehicle close to the outermost right-hand side of the roadway or in the traffic lane with a traffic sign permitting a right turn at not less distance than 30m before the turn-way
c. where a bus lane exists on the outermost right-hand side of the roadway, the driver shall keep his vehicle close to the bus lane at not less distance than 30m before the turn-way and shall make a turn across the bus lane only at the area where there is a traffic sign permitting such turn
d. where a traffic officer or competent officer is displaying traffic signals by hands and arms, the driver shall make a right turn without having to round the traffic officer or competent officer
e. at a junction the driver shall allow the vehicles that travel in the same roadway but in the opposite direction to pass through the junction first and, upon seeing that it is safe, may then make a right turn.
[When making a left/right turn, the driver shall be careful for pedestrians and other vehicles. He shall not obstruct through traffic. Vehicles turning left shall give way to vehicles turning right.]
Section 52 (500B)
In a roadway that permits vehicle traffic in both directions, no driver shall turn around his vehicle at the time when another vehicle is coming in the opposite direction or following behind at not less (sic) distance than 150m.
If the turning around of a vehicle in a roadway that permits vehicle traffic in both directions will obstruct the traffic, no driver shall turn around his vehicle in such roadway.
Section 53 (400-1000B)
No driver shall:
a. turn his vehicle or turn around his vehicle in the roadway with a sign prohibiting a right turn, a left turn or a turning around of a vehicle
b. turn around his vehicle at a safety zone, critical (congested) area, on a bridge or within a distance of 100m from the bridge foot
c. turn around his vehicle at a junction, unless there is a traffic sign permitting vehicles to turn around.
4. Stopping and Parking Vehicles
Section 54 (500B)
[The driver shall display brake lamp or corresponding hand signal before he stops his vehicle in not less distance than 30m. When stopping a vehicle, he must not obstruct other traffic.
The driver shall park his vehicle parallel with and close to the curbside or road shoulder in a distance not exceeding 25cm. In case the outermost left-hand side lane is a bus lane, no person shall park his vehicle during the bus-operating hours.]
Section 55 (500B)
[The driver shall not stop his vehicle:
a. in a traffic lane, except stopping close to the curbside and that there being no bus lane there
b. on a footpath
c. on a bridge or in a tunnel
d. at a junction
e. where there is a No Parking traffic sign
f. at the entrance/exit of a building or roadway
g. in a safety zone
h. in the manner of traffic obstruction.
This does not apply when the roadway is obstructed, in case of a mechanical failure, or when the driver is complying with other traffic sign/signal.]
Section 56 (1000B)
[In case the driver must stop his vehicle in the roadway due to mechanical failure, he must move such vehicle out of the roadway as soon as possible. If it requires extended parking, the driver must park the vehicle in a non-obstructive way to other traffic, and display proper signs or signals prescribed by regulation.]
Section 57 (500B)
Unless otherwise granted by this Act or regulations, no driver shall park his vehicle:
a. on a footpath
b. on a bridge or in a tunnel
c. at a junction or within a distance of 10m from a junction
d. at a crossing or within a distance of 3m from a crossing
e. in an area where there is No Parking traffic sign
f. within a distance of 3m from a hydrant
g. within a distance of 10m from a traffic sign installation
h. within a distance of 15m from a railway crossing
i. in the manner of double parking
j. at the entrance/exit of a building or roadway or within a distance of 5m from the entrance of a roadway
k. in between a safety zone and the roadway curb, or within a distance of 10m from either end of a safety zone
l. in a critical (congested) area
m. within a distance of 15m before and 3m beyond a bus stop
n. within a distance of 3m from a pillar-box
o. in a manner that obstructs the traffic.
Section 58 (500B)
[When parking and leaving a vehicle, the driver must stop the engine and apply the brake. When parking on a slope, the driver must turn the front wheels.]
Section 59
[The police may order the driver of an illegally parked vehicle to move on. If the driver is absent on the scene, or refusing to comply [2000B and/or one-month imprisonment], the police may remove such a vehicle, or lock the tires. If any damage occurs to the vehicle during this process, the police will not be held responsible unless it's intentional or gross negligence.]
Section 60 (500B)
[When parking a vehicle outside a municipal area (countryside), the vehicle should be visible to other drivers from not less distance than 150m.]
Section 61 (500B)
[If it's dark and the vehicle parked cannot be seen clearly from a distance of 150m, the driver must turn on parking lights.]
Section 62 (500B)
At a railway crossing, the driver must stop the vehicle at not less distance than 5m from the railway tracks, if:
a. a sign or signal is displayed to indicate an approaching train
b. the crossing bar is closed or a traffic officer displays a sign of an approaching train
c. the driver hears the sound of an approaching train.
Section 63 (500B)
At a railway crossing, where there is no signal or crossing bar to warn an approaching train, the driver must stop the vehicle at not less distance than 5m from the railway tracks, to see if it's safe to pass.
Section 64 (1000B)
[When a school bus is stopping to pick up/set down students, other drivers shall reduce speed, and may pass the school bus with great care.]
Title 4: Use of Roadways with Traffic Lanes
Section 65 (400-1000B)
[Buses and passenger cars must use the bus lane.]
Section 66 (500)
[Only buses and passenger cars can use the bus lane.]
Title 5: Prescription of Speeds of Vehicles
Section 67 (1000B)
[The driver must not exceed the speed limit prescribed by regulation according to the type of the vehicle, or as specified on the traffic signs on the road.]
Section 68 (500B)
[When letting other vehicles overtake, the driver shall reduce his speed. The driver should reduce speed when stopping, turning or making a U-turn.]
Section 69 (500B)
[The driver shall reduce the speed when
a. on a hill
b. on a bridge
c. at a bridge foot
d. through a narrow pass
e. on a curve
f. on a slope
g. at a critical (congested) area
h. the fog, rain, dust or smoke limits visibility to 60m or less.]
Section 70 (500B)
[The driver shall reduce speed when approaching a junction, pedestrian crossing, vehicle stop line, or circle (rotary).]
Title 6: Driving through Junctions or Circles
Section 71 (500B)
[If, when entering a junction, there are other vehicles, the driver must let such vehicles go through first.
If two vehicles enter a junction from different directions at the same time, the vehicle on the left side has a right of way, except when there's a designation of principle roadway in which case the vehicle on the principle roadway has a right of way.]
Section 72
[A principle roadway is announced by the traffic officer and installed with indicative traffic signs.]
Section 73 (500 - 1000B)
[A driver must comply with traffic signals and signs which are installed at a circle (rotary). (1000B)
If there's no traffic signal or sign installed at a circle (rotary), a driver must give way to vehicles coming from his right. (500B)
If the traffic officer deems it appropriate, he may set temporary traffic signals. (1000B)]
Section 74 (500B)
A driver who is driving a vehicle out of a private way or a roadway in a building area, before crossing or turning into the roadway that cuts across, shall stop his vehicle to let the vehicles passing or moving in the roadway through before proceeding upon it being safe.
Title 7: Emergency Vehicles
Section 75 - Section 76
Title 8: Towing or Pulling Vehicles
Section 77
Title 9: Accidents
Section 78 (2000B / one-month imprisonment)
[Any person who drives a vehicle and causes damage to other person or other person's property, be it his fault or not, shall stop the vehicle and give appropriate assistance, and immediately report to the competent officer who is on duty near to the scene, and leave the information of his full name, address and the vehicle registration number with the injured person.
In the event that the driver escapes or does not report himself to the competent officer at the scene of the accident, it shall be presumed that he is the offender and the competent officer shall have the power to seize the vehicle driven by the driver who has escaped or has failed to report the accident until the case receives the final judgment or the driver is found.
If the owner does not make his presence to the competent officer within six months from the day of the accident, it shall be regarded that the vehicle is associated with a criminal activity, and it shall become the property of the state.]
Title 10: Bicycles
Section 79 - Section 84
Title 11: Passenger Vehicles
Section 85 - Section 92
Title 12: Taxis
Section 93 (1000B)
Driver of a taxi shall not refuse to accept employment to convey passengers, except when such conveyance is likely to cause danger to himself or the passengers.
In the event of the driver of a taxi does not wish to be employed to convey passengers, a placard shall be displayed.
The manner of the display and the characteristics of the said placard shall be in accordance with the law on automobiles.
Section 94 (1000B)
Driver of a taxi shall not convey passengers in the number exceeding that prescribed in the license under the law on automobiles.
In counting the number of passengers, it shall be regarded that two children not older than ten years of age are equal to one passenger.
Section 95 (1000B)
Anyone shall not:
1. Solicit passengers for a taxi noisily or in a manner being a nuisance to the passengers or other persons
2. Round up, pull, hold back or force persons or their belongings to board any taxi.
Section 96 (500B)
Driver of a taxi shall not charge a fare in excess of the amount registered in the taxi meter.
The characteristics and use of a taxi meter shall be in accordance with the prescriptions in the Ministerial Regulations. (1000B)
Section 97 (500B)
The passengers shall pay a fare according to the amount registered in the taxi meter.
Section 98 (500B)
A royal decree shall be issued to prescribe localities and taxis of every type or certain types to which the provisions of Section 96 and Section 97 shall apply with conditions.
In a locality not governed by the royal decree pursuant to paragraph one, no driver of a taxi shall charge a fare in excess of the amount agreed upon with the passenger and such passenger shall pay the fare in the amount agreed upon.
The provision in paragraph two shall also apply to the taxis of the types not being prescribed in the royal decree pursuant to paragraph one.
Section 99 (1000B)
Driver, while driving a taxi, shall not
1. Smoke, play a radio or act in any manner that is a nuisance to the passengers
2. Extend a hand, arm or any part of the body out of the vehicle, except in displaying signals pursuant to Section 37
3. Control the steering wheel with only one hand, except when necessary
4. Use sound signals when entering into the area of a hospital, office or educational institute
5. Use horn sound signals to press other vehicles
6. Overtake or dash in front of other vehicles haphazardly and dangerously
7. Drive into other person's house area
8. Pick up a passenger in an area prescribed by the traffic officer with a traffic sign prohibiting picking up of passengers
9. Use impolite word, speak sarcastically at, insult, abuse or act in such manner to the passengers or other persons.
Section 100 (2000B and/or 1 month imprisonment)
The driver of a taxi shall convey his passengers through the shortest route or a reasonable detour and shall deliver them at the place agreed upon.
Driver of a taxi shall not forsake his passengers on the way in any circumstance.
Section 101
[The driver of a taxi shall dress in a uniform with an embroidered mark, according to regulations.]
Section 102 (1000B)
[If the Minister specifies a parking space for taxis, taxi drivers must park their taxis there in wait for passengers.]
Title 13: Pedestrians
Section 103 (200B)
A pedestrian shall walk on the footpath or road shoulder at the side of a roadway. If such footpath or road shoulder at the side of a roadway does not exist, he shall walk along the edge of the way on his right.
Section 104 (200B)
Pedestrian shall not cross a way within not more distance than 100 meters from a pedestrian crossing except in the pedestrian crossing.
Section 105 (200B)
[methods for pedestrians to cross a road on a pedestrian crossing.]
Section 106 (200B)
[methods for pedestrians to cross a road at a junction without a pedestrian crossing.]
Section 107 (500B)
[When a police officer is regulating the traffic with hand signals or whistle, a pedestrian must obey his instructions.]
Section 108 (500B)
Persons shall not walk in files or processions in the manner that obstructs the traffic, except:
1. Files of military or police personnel under the control of an officer according to the rules and practice
2. Files or processions that the traffic officer permits and that comply with the conditions prescribed by the traffic officer.
Section 109 (500B)
No person shall commit any act on a footpath or any other way provided for pedestrians in any manner that obstructs other persons without sufficient cause.
Section 110 (500B)
No person shall buy or sell goods, distribute materials or solicit contributions in a roadway or in the middle of a way without sufficient cause or that obstructs the traffic.
Title 14: Animals and Articles in Ways
Section 111 - Section 115
Title 15: Horse-Drawn Carriages and Bullock Carts
Section 116 - Section 118
Title 16: Safety Zone
Section 119
A driver is not allowed to drive his vehicle into the safety zone, except when it is necessary and permission has been obtained from the traffic officer.
Title 17: Miscellaneous
Section 120 (500B)
The driver shall not drive backwards in the manner which is not safe or obstructing the traffic.
Section 121 (500B)
[The rider of a motorcycle shall sit on the saddle, provided for the motorcycle rider. If the competent officer specifies in the registration to be able to carry passengers, the passenger shall ride at the back seat provided for the passenger, or in the side-car.]
Section 122 (500B)
[The rider and the passenger of a motorcycle shall wear a motorcycle helmet.
The provision under this Section is not forced for monks, novices, ascetics, persons of other religions which require wearing of a turban, or any persons under Ministerial Regulation.]
Section 123 (500B)
[The number of passengers sitting in the front row must not exceed two. The driver must wear a seat-belt, and let other passengers in the front row to wear a seat-belt.]
Section 124 (500B)
[Passenger must not obstruct views of the driver or operation of the vehicle. Passenger must not extend his hands, arms, etc out of the vehicle while it's in operation. No one can get in or get out of a bus/school bus/taxi while the vehicle is stopping at a traffic light or other obstruction. The driver or conductor of a bus/school bus/taxi must not allow anyone to do above mentioned actions.]
Section 125 (400-1000B)
When driving through a narrow pass between mountains or hills or when driving in a roadway on a mountain or hill, the driver of a vehicle shall keep close to the kerb on the left-hand side and upon arriving at a curve shall use sound signals to give a warning to another vehicle that may be coming in the opposite direction.
Section 126 (500B)
Driver of a vehicle shall not apply the neutral gear or let in the clutch while driving down a slope or shoulder of a hill.
Section 127 (1000B)
Driver of a vehicle shall not
1. Drive his vehicle in less distance than 50m behind an emergency vehicle which is performing its duty
2. Drive his vehicle into or park his vehicle in a fire operation area
3. Drive his vehicle on top of a fire-hose with no protection while firemen are performing their duty except with permission of the firemen then on duty.
Section 128 (1000B)
No person shall place, pour or throw pieces of broken glass, nails, wire, grease, empty cans or other materials or commit any action on a way that may cause danger or damage to vehicles or persons or obstruct the traffic.
Section 129 (500B)
Any person who knows that any of the said materials pursuant to Section 128 under his control has fallen, leaked or flown on a way shall immediately remove such material out of the way.
Section 130 (1000B)
Any person shall not burn or commit any action within a distance of 500m from a roadway that causes smoke or other things likely to be dangerous to the traffic in such roadway.
Section 131 (200B)
Any person who removes a broken down or ruined vehicle from a way shall over immediately remove all the broken parts or fallen articles that result from such break-down or ruin.
Section 132 (200B)
[The owner or driver of a school bus must put a SCHOOL BUS sign, not less than 15cm in height, in the front and back of the bus while on duty of picking up/putting down students.
When the school bus is not in use for picking up/putting down students, the driver must have the SCHOOL BUS signs concealed and, in case the bus is equipped with red flash lights to warn other vehicles, must not use the lights.]
Section 133 (500B)
[A vehicle to be used in a procession or for advertising or entertainment along ways must acquire a permission from the traffic officer.]
Section 134 (10,000B and/or not less than three months of imprisonment)
There shall be no vehicle race on the roadway except with written permission from the traffic officer.
There shall be no supporting of vehicle race on the roadway except with written permission from the traffic officer.
Title 18: Power of the Traffic Officer and Competent Officer
Section 135
[The traffic officer may declare a private land as the road under this Act, upon consent of the land owner.]
Section 136
[The Director General can appoint instructors to instruct traffic volunteers who assist competent officers.]
Section 137
In performing his dusy assigned to him under this Act, a traffic volunteer shall be an officer under the Criminal Code.
Section 138 (1000B)
[In case of accident or emergency, the traffic officer or competent officer shall have the power to execute any action deemed appropriate or necessary, such as:
1. To prohibit the entrance of vehicles of all or certain categories or pedestrians
2. To prohibit the stopping or parking of vehicles
3. To prohibit the turning, turning around of backing of vehicles
4. To pescribe a road as one-way.]
Section 139 (1000B)
[If a police officer deems it appropriate, he may set and notify traffic rules.]
Section 140
[Upon finding a traffic violation, the police officer may give a verbal warning or issue a written order to the driver to report at a police station. In the event of the driver is nowhere to be found, a written order shall be left on the vehicle at a conspicuous place.
In issuing a written order to a driver to report to a police station, the police officer may temporarily seize the driving license by issuing a driving license replacement, which shall be valid for driving for a period not exceeding seven days.]
Section 141
[One may pay the fine by sending a money-order or bank-cheque with the copy of the written order.]
Section 142 (1000B)
[The traffic officer or competent officer shall have the power to order a driver of a vehicle to stop the vehicle upon:
1. The condition of the vehicle not being correct according to the provision of Section 6
2. Having a cause to believe that the driver of or a person in such vehicle violates or does not compoly with the provisions of this Act or the law on such vehicle.
In case the traffic officer, the inquiry officer or the competent officer see that the driver violates to the Section 43 (1) or (2), they can order the driver to be tested whether he lacks of ability to drive or whether he's intoxicated.
In case the driver refuses to be tested, the officer may keep him in custody for a necessary period of time to examine. If the driver is normal, he shall be acquitted promptly.]
Section 143 (1000B)
[If a motor vehicle doesn't satisfy Section 6, the traffic officer may issue a written order to service the vehicle.]
Section 144 (1000B)
[After the owner or driver of a vehicle pursuant to Section 143 have repaired the vehicle, he must bring the vehicle for inspection and receive a certificate before putting the vehicle in use.]
Section 145
The investigation officer shall have the power to investigate all the offences under this Act, and shall have the power to impose fines or give verbal warnings.]
Section 146
The fine payments under this Act obtained in Bangkok Metropolis or any Province or locality specified in the Notification of the Ministry of Interior shall be given in part to the Bangkok Metropolis or the Municipality of such Province for traffic management or wholly allocated to the locality specified in the Notification of the Ministry of Interior.
Title 19: Penalty Provisions
Section 147 - Section 160
Section 161
In the event a driver having committed an offence under this Act, the Commander of the Bangkok Metropolitan Police, the Commander of the Provincial Police, the Commander of the Traffic Police, the Commander of the Highways Police or the person authorized by the said officers shall have the power to seize and hold the driving license of such driver for not exceeding sixty days at a time.
The driver whose driving license is seized pursuant to paragraph one may appeal to the Director General within fifteen days from the day of the seizure of the driving license.
The Director General shall consider the petition and give the decision to either seize or not seize the driving license within one month from the day of receipt of the appeal. Such decision of the Director General shall be final.
Section 162
In a lawsuit that a driver is convicted by the final judgment of the Court for the commission of an offense under this Act or the law governing such vehicle, besides the penalty that such driver is liable under such provision but, if it appears to the Court that the driver is likely to cause danger to persons or property of other persons if allowed to drive, the Court shall have the power to order the suspension or revocation of the driving license of such person.
Section 163
With regard to a lawsuit that there is a commission of an act that violates or does not comply with the provisions of this Act or the law governing such a vehicle, if such violation or non-compliance has caused damage to the traffic signals or traffic signs installed by the competent officer, the Public Prosecution Officer, upon prosecuting the offender, shall demand for compensation for the damage inflicted upon the said traffic signals or traffic signs.
http://www.bkkriders.com is an old site that's been defunct for quite a few years, but still contains some valuable information. Reckon it would be a good idea to copy this to GT-Rider before the site disappears.
http://www.bkkriders.com/law/index.html
The links cover:
Introduction
Driver's Handbook
Topics
International Driving Permit
Registration, Tax and Insurance
Legal Documents
Traffic Offense Points System
Law Texts
Land Traffic Act
traffic rules
Motor Vehicle Act
vehicle registration, annual tax, driver's license
Protection for Motor Vehicle Accident Victims Act
compulsory insurance
ref. Compulsory Insurance Policy / Example
Ministerial Regulations
regarding above laws
International Treaties
ASEAN Treaties
Driver's License, Vehicle Passage, etc.
ref. Customs Procedures in ASEAN Countries
United Nations Conventions
Thai Land Traffic Act is below:
http://www.bkkriders.com/law/landtraffic.html
back to Bits of Law Bangkok Riders Club
Source:
Title: Land Traffic Act B.E. 2522
ISBN: 9-7450-3994-2
Price: 120B
Brackets indicate an abridged text.
Parentheses indicate the maximum fine.
Land Traffic Act
B.E. 2522 (1979)
Contents
Title 1: Use of Vehicles
Title 2: Traffic Signals and Traffic Signs
Title 3: Use of Roadways
1. Vehicle Driving
2. Overtaking and Passing
3. Starting off, Turning and Turning Around Vehicles
4. Stopping and Parking Vehicles
Title 4: Use of Roadways with Traffic Lanes
Title 5: Prescriptions of Speeds of Vehicles
Title 6: Driving through Junctions or Circles
Title 7: Emergency Vehicles
Title 8: Towing or Pulling Vehicles
Title 9: Accidents
Title 10: Bicycles
Title 11: Passenger Vehicles
Title 12: Taxis
Title 13: Pedestrians
Title 14: Animals and Articles in Ways
Title 15: Horse-Drawn Carriages and Bullock Carts
Title 16: Safety Zone
Title 17: Miscellaneous
Title 18: Power of the Traffic Officer and Competent Officer
Title 19: Penalty Provisions
Section 1
This Act is to be called Land Traffic Act, B.E. 2522.
Section 2
This Act shall come into force 90 days after its publication in the Government Gazette.
Section 3
The following shall be repealed:
a. Land Traffic Act B.E. 2477 (1934)
b. Land Traffic Amendment Act,, B.E. 2478 (1935)
c. Land Traffic Act , B.E. 2481 (1938)
d. Land Traffic Act , B.E. 2508 (1965)
e. Announcement of the Revolutionary Party No. 59, January 29, B.E. 2515 (1972)
Section 4
[Definition of 40 legal terms, namely: Traffic, Way, Motorway, Motor lane, Bus lane, One-way street, Curbside, Road shoulder, Road junction, Circle, Footpath, Street crossing, Safety zone, Critical area, Vehicle, Automobile, Motorcycle, Bicycle, Emergency vehicle, Truck, Passenger vehicle, School bus, Bus, Taxi, Tow-truck, Trailer, Taximeter, Driver, Pedestrian, Vehicle owner, Conductor, Driving license, Traffic signal, Traffic sign, Minister, Director general, Traffic officer, Competent officer, Traffic volunteer, Inspector.]
Automobile means a vehicle that has three wheels or more and driven by an engine power or electric or other power, except vehicle running on rails.
Motorcycle means a vehicle that is driven by an engine power or electric or other power and has not more than two wheels and, if attached by a side-car, has not more than an additional wheel.
Driving license means a license to drive an automobile under the law on automobile, a driver's license under the law on vehicles for rent, a driving license under the law on wheeled vehicles, and a license of an operator of the transportation equipment under the law on transportation.
Section 5
The Minister of Interior shall be in charge and control of the execution of this Act and shall have the power to appoint traffic officers and issue Ministerial Regulations prescribing other activities for the execution of this Act.
Ministerial Regulations shall come into force upon publication in the Government Gazette.
Title 1: Use of Vehicles
Section 6 (500B)
[Vehicles used on roads must be properly maintained according to regulations, so that they don't cause harm or danger to the public.]
Section 7 (1000B)
[Cars and motorcycles must have vehicle registration plates (license plates) when in use on the road.]
Section 8 (500B)
[A vehicle must allow the driver enough range of vision.]
Section 9 (500B)
[A vehicle must not scrape the road.]
Section 10 (500B)
[A vehicle must not emit gas, dust, smoke, etc, exceeding the regulation.]
Section 11 (500B)
[If it gets dark and you cannot see clearly more than 150m, you must turn on the headlight.]
Section 12 (200B)
[Cars and motorcycles must have a horn which is audible from a distance of 60m.]
Section 13 (500B)
[Cars and motorcycles cannot use flash-light, siren signal, whistle signal, faltering sound, etc, except emergency vehicles, military and police vehicles, or when permitted by the regulation.]
Section 14 (500B)
[Cars and motorcycles can use the horn only when avoiding danger or accidents.]
Section 15 (1000B)
[When a vehicle carries something that's longer than the vehicle itself, a red light signal (night) or a red flag (day) must be fastened to the end of the protrusion, to be visible from a distance of 150m.]
Section 16 (1000B)
[If a truck carries inflammable liquid that flares up at 21C, or inflammable gas, it must have a red light signal (night) or red flag (day) to caution other vehicles.]
Section 17 (2000B and/or 1 month imprisonment)
[If a truck carries explosives, it must have placards naming the explosive substance, and fire-extinguishers.]
Section 18 (500B)
[A school bus, truck or passenger vehicle must comply with regulations as to the way to carry passengers, animals or loads.]
Section 19
[When it is necessary to carry passengers, animals or loads in a way not in accordance with regulations, the vehicle owner may request a police officer for a written temporary permission to ease the restriction.]
Section 20 (500B)
[A driver is responsible for not letting his passengers, animals, or loads to fall, leak, give out smell, reflect light, etc, which may cause harm or danger to the public.]
Title 2: Traffic Signals and Traffic Signs
Section 21 (1000B)
[The driver must comply with traffic signals and traffic signs.]
(def.
traffic signal: any signal by movement or showing or sending of a fire, electric light, hand, arm, whistle or by other means for drivers, pedestrians or persons who lead, ride or chase animals to comply with such a signal.
traffic sign: any sign installed or made conspicuous in a way for drivers, pedestrians or persons who lead, ride or chase animals to comply with such a sign.)
Section 22 (1000B)
[Meaning of traffic light:
Green: the driver may drive the vehicle through
Yellow: the driver shall prepare to stop the vehicle behind the stop line. If the driver has passed the stop line when the traffic light turns yellow, he may go through.
Red: the driver shall stop the vehicle behind the stop line.
Green Arrow: the driver shall drive according to the direction of the green arrow, but shall be careful to give way to crossing pedestrians or other vehicles.
Blinking Red: the driver shall stop at the stop line and, when it is seen safe, may proceed with care.
Blinking Yellow: the driver shall reduce the speed of the vehicle and proceed through the roadway carefully.]
The driver who is to drive the vehicle straight ahead shall keep to the traffic lane with a traffic sign indicating going straight ahead and the driver who is to turn the vehicle shall keep to the traffic lane with a traffic signal indicating turning. Entering into the said traffic lanes shall be made from where there is traffic sign indicating such.
Section 23 (1000B)
[If a traffic light indicates a "red cross" or green arrow on a specific lane, the driver on the lane shall comply with this sign.]
Section 24 (1000B)
a. When the competent officer stands and stretches out his left arm at the shoulder level, the driver who drives his vehicle from behind the competent officer shall stop his vehicle. But when the competent officer puts down his left hand and moves it forwards, he shall proceed with his vehicle.
b. When the competent officer stands and stretches out his right arm at the shoulder level with the palm open and upright, the driver of a vehicle coming from the direction to which the arm stretches out shall stop his vehicle. But when the competent officer turns the upright palm and moves it over his head backwards, he shall proceed with his vehicle.
c. When the competent officer stands and stretches out both arms at the shoulder level with the palm open and upright, the driver of the vehicles coming from the directions to which the arms stretch shall stop their vehicles.
d. When the competent officer stands and raises the lower part of the right arm at a right angle to the upper part with the palm open and upright, the driver who drives his vehicle from in front the competent officer shall stop his vehicle. But when the competent officer turns the upright palm and moves it backwards, he shall proceed with his vehicle.
e. When the competent officer stands and raises the lower part of the right arm at a right angle to the upper part with the palm open and upright and stretches out his left arm at the shoulder level, the drivers of vehicles coming from in front and behind the competent officer shall stop their vehicles.
The stopping of a vehicle under this Section shall be behind the line for vehicles to stop. In case no such line exists in a motorway, a driver of a vehicle shall stop his vehicle at not less distance than three meters from where the competent officer is standing.
Section 25 (1000B)
[Meaning of whistle signal by the police:
One long whistle: stop
Two short whistles: proceed.]
Section 26 (1000B)
[When a police officer gives traffic signals contrary to installed traffic signs or signals, the driver must comply with his signal.]
Section 27
[The Director General of the Police has the power to amend or modify traffic signs and signals.]
Section 28 (2000B and/or 1 month imprisonment)
[Unauthorized persons cannot install traffic signs or display traffic signals.]
Section 29 (1000B)
[No person shall damage, conceal, or obstruct traffic signs or traffic signals.]
Section 30
[The police officer may remove fake traffic signs (Section 28) or damaged traffic signs (Section 29).]
Title 3: Use of Roadways
1. Vehicle Driving
Section 31
[Unless otherwise stated in Section 65 and Section 66 concerning the bus lane, use of roadways shall be in accordance with following sections.]
Section 32
[The driver shall be careful not to hit pedestrians, and may use the horn if necessary. The driver shall be especially careful with children, elderly persons and disabled persons.]
Section 33 (500B)
[When driving, the driver shall keep to the left of the road and must not drive beyond the middle of the roadway, except following situations:
a. there is obstruction on the road
b. the road is prescribed as one-way
c. the road width is less than 6m.
Section 34 (500B)
[If the road is divided into two or more traffic lanes in the same direction, the driver shall keep to the outermost left-hand side lane. If the outermost left-hand side lane is a bus lane, the driver shall keep close to the bus lane. Except following situations:
a. there is obstruction on the road
b. the road is prescribed as one-way
c. it is necessary to enter the correct lane upon approaching a junction
d. when overtaking another vehicle
e. when driving faster than vehicles in the left-hand side lane.
Section 35 (400-1000B)
The driver of a truck, passenger vehicle, motorcycle, vehicle of low speed or traveling at lower speed than those of other vehicles moving in the same direction, shall keep to the curbside of the roadway as close as possible.
If such a roadway is divided into two or more traffic lanes in the same direction or has a bus lane specifically arranged on the left-hand side, the driver shall drive the vehicle in the outermost left-hand side lane or close to the bus lane, as the case may be.
Section 36 (500B)
[When a driver is to turn the vehicle, let another vehicle to overtake, change traffic lane, reduce speed or stop the vehicle, he shall display hand signal (Section 37) or light signal (Section 38). When the condition doesn't permit the visibility of hand signals (like at night), he must use the light signal.
The driver must display the hand signal or light signal not less distance than 60m before turning the vehicle, changing traffic lane, or stopping the vehicle.
The hand signal or light signal must be visible to other drivers at not less distance than 60m.]
Section 37 (500B)
[How to make hand signals:
a. to reduce speed, ...
b. to stop a vehicle, ...
c. to let another vehicle pass, ...
d. to turn the vehicle right, ...
e. to turn the vehicle left, ...]
In case that the automobile has its steering wheel at the left-hand side, the driver shall use light signals instead of hand signals.
Section 38 (500B)
The driver of an automobile or motorcycle shall display light signals as follows:
a. to stop the vehicle, ...
b. to turn the vehicle or change traffic lane, ...
c. to let another vehicle to overtake, the driver shall display amber light signal for turning or blinking red or amber light signal at the back and to the left of the vehicle.
Section 39 (500B)
[When two vehicles pass each other in the opposite direction, in order to avoid danger, each driver shall keep to the left-hand side of the roadway and, if necessary, reduce the speed. When the road is too narrow to pass each other, the driver of the bigger vehicle shall stop his vehicle close to the curbside and let the smaller vehicle pass. When there's an obstruction on the road, the driver on the lane with obstruction shall reduce speed or stop his vehicle to let another vehicle pass.]
Section 40 ( ? B)
[The driver shall keep a safe distance from another vehicle in front of him. When driving up a slope, he shall be careful not to let the vehicle slide backwards and crash another vehicle.]
Section 41 (500B)
[On a one-way road, the driver must follow its direction.]
Section 42 (500B)
The driver shall keep his vehicle close to the left-hand side of a roadway divided into two ways, one for the vehicles going up and the other for the vehicles coming down, with a dividing space in the middle or with a traffic sign indicating that the roadway being divided into two ways.
Section 43 (400-1000B)
No driver shall drive the vehicle:
a. while being incompetent to drive
b. while being intoxicated by liquor or other alcoholic drinks
c. in a manner that obstructs the traffic
d. with carelessness or recklessness which may cause danger to persons or property
e. in a manner not normally practiced in driving a vehicle or while unable to see the way in front or at the back or either/both sides clearly enough for safety
f. beyond or on the line dividing traffic lanes, except upon changing lanes, turning or turning around the vehicle
g. on a footpath without sufficient cause, except a baby-carriage or wheel-chair for sick or disabled persons
h. without thinking about the safety or suffering of other persons.
Section 43-2
[The driver cannot take narcotic drugs while driving. The police are authorized to examine such suspect drivers. If the driver refuses examination (1000B), the police can detain the driver for further investigation.]
(If found guilty of taking narcotic drugs, the punishment by the Law on Narcotic Drugs is raised by 1/3, and his driver's license may be suspended for not less than six months or revoked. If the driver causes a traffic accident while on drug, the penalty may be up to 6-year imprisonment and a fine up to 120,000B. -- Section 157-2)
Section 43-3
[The police can stop and examine drivers suspected of Section 43 a./b. (Refusal of the examination, 1000B)]
Section 43-4
[The police can send the driver who violates Section 43 a./b., or Section 43-2, to the "inquiry officer.]
Section 43-5
[In performing the duty in Section 43-2 and Section 43-3, the police officer must show the identity card that is issued according to the Land Traffic Act or Motor Car Act.]
2. Overtaking and Passing
Section 44 (500B)
A driver who wishes to overtake or pass another vehicle in the roadway with no traffic lane mark shall use sound signals loud enough to let the driver who is driving the vehicle in front know of his intention and, after the driver of the vehicle in front gives a responding signal pursuant to Section 37 c. or Section 38 c.(left blinker or corresponding hand signal), may proceed to overtake.
[When overtaking, the driver shall overtake from the right side, keep safe distance, and return to the left-hand side lane promptly.]
Section 45 (400-1000B)
[No driver shall overtake another vehicle from the left-side unless:
a. the vehicle to be overtaken is making a right turn or has given a signal that he is going to make a right turn
b. the roadway is arranged with two or more traffic lanes in the same direction.]
Section 46 (400-1000B)
[The driver shall not overtake another vehicle when:
a. driving up a slope, bridge or curve, except where there is a traffic sign permitting overtaking
b. within a distance of 30m from a pedestrian crossing, junction, circle (rotary) or railroad crossing
c. the fog, rain or dust prevents visibility of 60m
d. entering a congested area or safety zone.]
Section 47 (400-1000B)
No driver of a vehicle shall drive his vehicle to overtake or pass another vehicle by, in doing so, going beyond the roadway's middle line that is marked or where there is a traffic sign indicating a danger area or an area in which carefulness is required on the roadway.
In the event of the left-hand side traffic lane is obstructed while the traffic lane on the right-hand side has sufficient space, a driver of a vehicle may avoid the obstructions by driving his vehicle beyond the roadway's middle line prescribed by the traffic officer in so far as he does not obstruct the traffic of the vehicles moving in the opposite direction.
Section 48 (400-1000B)
[No driver shall enter the bus lane in order to overtake another vehicle, except when there's an obstacle ahead or guided by a police officer.]
Section 49 (1000B)
[Upon receiving a signal for overtaking from a vehicle immediately behind, on condition that the road ahead is safe and there's no vehicle coming from the opposite direction, the driver shall display a responding signal (left blinker or corresponding hand signal) and keep the vehicle close to the left to let the vehicle behind to pass.]
3. Starting off, Turning and Turning Around Vehicles
Section 50 (1000B)
A driver who starts off a vehicle shall, upon seeing that there is a parked vehicle or obstruction ahead, display hand and arm signals pursuant to Section 37 or light signals pursuant to Section 38 and shall proceed upon seeing that it is safe and he is not obstructing the traffic of other vehicles.
Section 51 (500B)
To turn left:
a. where no traffic lanes are arranged, the driver shall keep his vehicle close on the left-hand side of the roadway
b. where traffic lanes are arranged and there is a traffic sign directing a left turn, the driver shall enter the traffic lane for vehicles to make a left turn at not less distance than 30m before the turn-way
c. where a bus lane exists on the outermost left-hand side of the roadway, the driver shall keep his vehicle close to the bus lane at not less distance than 30m before the turn-way and shall make a turn across the bus lane only at the area where there is a traffic sign permitting such turn.
To turn right:
a. on a roadway with no traffic lane, the driver shall keep his vehicle close on the right-hand (sic) side of the middle line of the roadway at not less distance than 30m before the turn-way
b. on a roadway with two and more traffic lanes in one same direction, the driver shall keep the vehicle close to the outermost right-hand side of the roadway or in the traffic lane with a traffic sign permitting a right turn at not less distance than 30m before the turn-way
c. where a bus lane exists on the outermost right-hand side of the roadway, the driver shall keep his vehicle close to the bus lane at not less distance than 30m before the turn-way and shall make a turn across the bus lane only at the area where there is a traffic sign permitting such turn
d. where a traffic officer or competent officer is displaying traffic signals by hands and arms, the driver shall make a right turn without having to round the traffic officer or competent officer
e. at a junction the driver shall allow the vehicles that travel in the same roadway but in the opposite direction to pass through the junction first and, upon seeing that it is safe, may then make a right turn.
[When making a left/right turn, the driver shall be careful for pedestrians and other vehicles. He shall not obstruct through traffic. Vehicles turning left shall give way to vehicles turning right.]
Section 52 (500B)
In a roadway that permits vehicle traffic in both directions, no driver shall turn around his vehicle at the time when another vehicle is coming in the opposite direction or following behind at not less (sic) distance than 150m.
If the turning around of a vehicle in a roadway that permits vehicle traffic in both directions will obstruct the traffic, no driver shall turn around his vehicle in such roadway.
Section 53 (400-1000B)
No driver shall:
a. turn his vehicle or turn around his vehicle in the roadway with a sign prohibiting a right turn, a left turn or a turning around of a vehicle
b. turn around his vehicle at a safety zone, critical (congested) area, on a bridge or within a distance of 100m from the bridge foot
c. turn around his vehicle at a junction, unless there is a traffic sign permitting vehicles to turn around.
4. Stopping and Parking Vehicles
Section 54 (500B)
[The driver shall display brake lamp or corresponding hand signal before he stops his vehicle in not less distance than 30m. When stopping a vehicle, he must not obstruct other traffic.
The driver shall park his vehicle parallel with and close to the curbside or road shoulder in a distance not exceeding 25cm. In case the outermost left-hand side lane is a bus lane, no person shall park his vehicle during the bus-operating hours.]
Section 55 (500B)
[The driver shall not stop his vehicle:
a. in a traffic lane, except stopping close to the curbside and that there being no bus lane there
b. on a footpath
c. on a bridge or in a tunnel
d. at a junction
e. where there is a No Parking traffic sign
f. at the entrance/exit of a building or roadway
g. in a safety zone
h. in the manner of traffic obstruction.
This does not apply when the roadway is obstructed, in case of a mechanical failure, or when the driver is complying with other traffic sign/signal.]
Section 56 (1000B)
[In case the driver must stop his vehicle in the roadway due to mechanical failure, he must move such vehicle out of the roadway as soon as possible. If it requires extended parking, the driver must park the vehicle in a non-obstructive way to other traffic, and display proper signs or signals prescribed by regulation.]
Section 57 (500B)
Unless otherwise granted by this Act or regulations, no driver shall park his vehicle:
a. on a footpath
b. on a bridge or in a tunnel
c. at a junction or within a distance of 10m from a junction
d. at a crossing or within a distance of 3m from a crossing
e. in an area where there is No Parking traffic sign
f. within a distance of 3m from a hydrant
g. within a distance of 10m from a traffic sign installation
h. within a distance of 15m from a railway crossing
i. in the manner of double parking
j. at the entrance/exit of a building or roadway or within a distance of 5m from the entrance of a roadway
k. in between a safety zone and the roadway curb, or within a distance of 10m from either end of a safety zone
l. in a critical (congested) area
m. within a distance of 15m before and 3m beyond a bus stop
n. within a distance of 3m from a pillar-box
o. in a manner that obstructs the traffic.
Section 58 (500B)
[When parking and leaving a vehicle, the driver must stop the engine and apply the brake. When parking on a slope, the driver must turn the front wheels.]
Section 59
[The police may order the driver of an illegally parked vehicle to move on. If the driver is absent on the scene, or refusing to comply [2000B and/or one-month imprisonment], the police may remove such a vehicle, or lock the tires. If any damage occurs to the vehicle during this process, the police will not be held responsible unless it's intentional or gross negligence.]
Section 60 (500B)
[When parking a vehicle outside a municipal area (countryside), the vehicle should be visible to other drivers from not less distance than 150m.]
Section 61 (500B)
[If it's dark and the vehicle parked cannot be seen clearly from a distance of 150m, the driver must turn on parking lights.]
Section 62 (500B)
At a railway crossing, the driver must stop the vehicle at not less distance than 5m from the railway tracks, if:
a. a sign or signal is displayed to indicate an approaching train
b. the crossing bar is closed or a traffic officer displays a sign of an approaching train
c. the driver hears the sound of an approaching train.
Section 63 (500B)
At a railway crossing, where there is no signal or crossing bar to warn an approaching train, the driver must stop the vehicle at not less distance than 5m from the railway tracks, to see if it's safe to pass.
Section 64 (1000B)
[When a school bus is stopping to pick up/set down students, other drivers shall reduce speed, and may pass the school bus with great care.]
Title 4: Use of Roadways with Traffic Lanes
Section 65 (400-1000B)
[Buses and passenger cars must use the bus lane.]
Section 66 (500)
[Only buses and passenger cars can use the bus lane.]
Title 5: Prescription of Speeds of Vehicles
Section 67 (1000B)
[The driver must not exceed the speed limit prescribed by regulation according to the type of the vehicle, or as specified on the traffic signs on the road.]
Section 68 (500B)
[When letting other vehicles overtake, the driver shall reduce his speed. The driver should reduce speed when stopping, turning or making a U-turn.]
Section 69 (500B)
[The driver shall reduce the speed when
a. on a hill
b. on a bridge
c. at a bridge foot
d. through a narrow pass
e. on a curve
f. on a slope
g. at a critical (congested) area
h. the fog, rain, dust or smoke limits visibility to 60m or less.]
Section 70 (500B)
[The driver shall reduce speed when approaching a junction, pedestrian crossing, vehicle stop line, or circle (rotary).]
Title 6: Driving through Junctions or Circles
Section 71 (500B)
[If, when entering a junction, there are other vehicles, the driver must let such vehicles go through first.
If two vehicles enter a junction from different directions at the same time, the vehicle on the left side has a right of way, except when there's a designation of principle roadway in which case the vehicle on the principle roadway has a right of way.]
Section 72
[A principle roadway is announced by the traffic officer and installed with indicative traffic signs.]
Section 73 (500 - 1000B)
[A driver must comply with traffic signals and signs which are installed at a circle (rotary). (1000B)
If there's no traffic signal or sign installed at a circle (rotary), a driver must give way to vehicles coming from his right. (500B)
If the traffic officer deems it appropriate, he may set temporary traffic signals. (1000B)]
Section 74 (500B)
A driver who is driving a vehicle out of a private way or a roadway in a building area, before crossing or turning into the roadway that cuts across, shall stop his vehicle to let the vehicles passing or moving in the roadway through before proceeding upon it being safe.
Title 7: Emergency Vehicles
Section 75 - Section 76
Title 8: Towing or Pulling Vehicles
Section 77
Title 9: Accidents
Section 78 (2000B / one-month imprisonment)
[Any person who drives a vehicle and causes damage to other person or other person's property, be it his fault or not, shall stop the vehicle and give appropriate assistance, and immediately report to the competent officer who is on duty near to the scene, and leave the information of his full name, address and the vehicle registration number with the injured person.
In the event that the driver escapes or does not report himself to the competent officer at the scene of the accident, it shall be presumed that he is the offender and the competent officer shall have the power to seize the vehicle driven by the driver who has escaped or has failed to report the accident until the case receives the final judgment or the driver is found.
If the owner does not make his presence to the competent officer within six months from the day of the accident, it shall be regarded that the vehicle is associated with a criminal activity, and it shall become the property of the state.]
Title 10: Bicycles
Section 79 - Section 84
Title 11: Passenger Vehicles
Section 85 - Section 92
Title 12: Taxis
Section 93 (1000B)
Driver of a taxi shall not refuse to accept employment to convey passengers, except when such conveyance is likely to cause danger to himself or the passengers.
In the event of the driver of a taxi does not wish to be employed to convey passengers, a placard shall be displayed.
The manner of the display and the characteristics of the said placard shall be in accordance with the law on automobiles.
Section 94 (1000B)
Driver of a taxi shall not convey passengers in the number exceeding that prescribed in the license under the law on automobiles.
In counting the number of passengers, it shall be regarded that two children not older than ten years of age are equal to one passenger.
Section 95 (1000B)
Anyone shall not:
1. Solicit passengers for a taxi noisily or in a manner being a nuisance to the passengers or other persons
2. Round up, pull, hold back or force persons or their belongings to board any taxi.
Section 96 (500B)
Driver of a taxi shall not charge a fare in excess of the amount registered in the taxi meter.
The characteristics and use of a taxi meter shall be in accordance with the prescriptions in the Ministerial Regulations. (1000B)
Section 97 (500B)
The passengers shall pay a fare according to the amount registered in the taxi meter.
Section 98 (500B)
A royal decree shall be issued to prescribe localities and taxis of every type or certain types to which the provisions of Section 96 and Section 97 shall apply with conditions.
In a locality not governed by the royal decree pursuant to paragraph one, no driver of a taxi shall charge a fare in excess of the amount agreed upon with the passenger and such passenger shall pay the fare in the amount agreed upon.
The provision in paragraph two shall also apply to the taxis of the types not being prescribed in the royal decree pursuant to paragraph one.
Section 99 (1000B)
Driver, while driving a taxi, shall not
1. Smoke, play a radio or act in any manner that is a nuisance to the passengers
2. Extend a hand, arm or any part of the body out of the vehicle, except in displaying signals pursuant to Section 37
3. Control the steering wheel with only one hand, except when necessary
4. Use sound signals when entering into the area of a hospital, office or educational institute
5. Use horn sound signals to press other vehicles
6. Overtake or dash in front of other vehicles haphazardly and dangerously
7. Drive into other person's house area
8. Pick up a passenger in an area prescribed by the traffic officer with a traffic sign prohibiting picking up of passengers
9. Use impolite word, speak sarcastically at, insult, abuse or act in such manner to the passengers or other persons.
Section 100 (2000B and/or 1 month imprisonment)
The driver of a taxi shall convey his passengers through the shortest route or a reasonable detour and shall deliver them at the place agreed upon.
Driver of a taxi shall not forsake his passengers on the way in any circumstance.
Section 101
[The driver of a taxi shall dress in a uniform with an embroidered mark, according to regulations.]
Section 102 (1000B)
[If the Minister specifies a parking space for taxis, taxi drivers must park their taxis there in wait for passengers.]
Title 13: Pedestrians
Section 103 (200B)
A pedestrian shall walk on the footpath or road shoulder at the side of a roadway. If such footpath or road shoulder at the side of a roadway does not exist, he shall walk along the edge of the way on his right.
Section 104 (200B)
Pedestrian shall not cross a way within not more distance than 100 meters from a pedestrian crossing except in the pedestrian crossing.
Section 105 (200B)
[methods for pedestrians to cross a road on a pedestrian crossing.]
Section 106 (200B)
[methods for pedestrians to cross a road at a junction without a pedestrian crossing.]
Section 107 (500B)
[When a police officer is regulating the traffic with hand signals or whistle, a pedestrian must obey his instructions.]
Section 108 (500B)
Persons shall not walk in files or processions in the manner that obstructs the traffic, except:
1. Files of military or police personnel under the control of an officer according to the rules and practice
2. Files or processions that the traffic officer permits and that comply with the conditions prescribed by the traffic officer.
Section 109 (500B)
No person shall commit any act on a footpath or any other way provided for pedestrians in any manner that obstructs other persons without sufficient cause.
Section 110 (500B)
No person shall buy or sell goods, distribute materials or solicit contributions in a roadway or in the middle of a way without sufficient cause or that obstructs the traffic.
Title 14: Animals and Articles in Ways
Section 111 - Section 115
Title 15: Horse-Drawn Carriages and Bullock Carts
Section 116 - Section 118
Title 16: Safety Zone
Section 119
A driver is not allowed to drive his vehicle into the safety zone, except when it is necessary and permission has been obtained from the traffic officer.
Title 17: Miscellaneous
Section 120 (500B)
The driver shall not drive backwards in the manner which is not safe or obstructing the traffic.
Section 121 (500B)
[The rider of a motorcycle shall sit on the saddle, provided for the motorcycle rider. If the competent officer specifies in the registration to be able to carry passengers, the passenger shall ride at the back seat provided for the passenger, or in the side-car.]
Section 122 (500B)
[The rider and the passenger of a motorcycle shall wear a motorcycle helmet.
The provision under this Section is not forced for monks, novices, ascetics, persons of other religions which require wearing of a turban, or any persons under Ministerial Regulation.]
Section 123 (500B)
[The number of passengers sitting in the front row must not exceed two. The driver must wear a seat-belt, and let other passengers in the front row to wear a seat-belt.]
Section 124 (500B)
[Passenger must not obstruct views of the driver or operation of the vehicle. Passenger must not extend his hands, arms, etc out of the vehicle while it's in operation. No one can get in or get out of a bus/school bus/taxi while the vehicle is stopping at a traffic light or other obstruction. The driver or conductor of a bus/school bus/taxi must not allow anyone to do above mentioned actions.]
Section 125 (400-1000B)
When driving through a narrow pass between mountains or hills or when driving in a roadway on a mountain or hill, the driver of a vehicle shall keep close to the kerb on the left-hand side and upon arriving at a curve shall use sound signals to give a warning to another vehicle that may be coming in the opposite direction.
Section 126 (500B)
Driver of a vehicle shall not apply the neutral gear or let in the clutch while driving down a slope or shoulder of a hill.
Section 127 (1000B)
Driver of a vehicle shall not
1. Drive his vehicle in less distance than 50m behind an emergency vehicle which is performing its duty
2. Drive his vehicle into or park his vehicle in a fire operation area
3. Drive his vehicle on top of a fire-hose with no protection while firemen are performing their duty except with permission of the firemen then on duty.
Section 128 (1000B)
No person shall place, pour or throw pieces of broken glass, nails, wire, grease, empty cans or other materials or commit any action on a way that may cause danger or damage to vehicles or persons or obstruct the traffic.
Section 129 (500B)
Any person who knows that any of the said materials pursuant to Section 128 under his control has fallen, leaked or flown on a way shall immediately remove such material out of the way.
Section 130 (1000B)
Any person shall not burn or commit any action within a distance of 500m from a roadway that causes smoke or other things likely to be dangerous to the traffic in such roadway.
Section 131 (200B)
Any person who removes a broken down or ruined vehicle from a way shall over immediately remove all the broken parts or fallen articles that result from such break-down or ruin.
Section 132 (200B)
[The owner or driver of a school bus must put a SCHOOL BUS sign, not less than 15cm in height, in the front and back of the bus while on duty of picking up/putting down students.
When the school bus is not in use for picking up/putting down students, the driver must have the SCHOOL BUS signs concealed and, in case the bus is equipped with red flash lights to warn other vehicles, must not use the lights.]
Section 133 (500B)
[A vehicle to be used in a procession or for advertising or entertainment along ways must acquire a permission from the traffic officer.]
Section 134 (10,000B and/or not less than three months of imprisonment)
There shall be no vehicle race on the roadway except with written permission from the traffic officer.
There shall be no supporting of vehicle race on the roadway except with written permission from the traffic officer.
Title 18: Power of the Traffic Officer and Competent Officer
Section 135
[The traffic officer may declare a private land as the road under this Act, upon consent of the land owner.]
Section 136
[The Director General can appoint instructors to instruct traffic volunteers who assist competent officers.]
Section 137
In performing his dusy assigned to him under this Act, a traffic volunteer shall be an officer under the Criminal Code.
Section 138 (1000B)
[In case of accident or emergency, the traffic officer or competent officer shall have the power to execute any action deemed appropriate or necessary, such as:
1. To prohibit the entrance of vehicles of all or certain categories or pedestrians
2. To prohibit the stopping or parking of vehicles
3. To prohibit the turning, turning around of backing of vehicles
4. To pescribe a road as one-way.]
Section 139 (1000B)
[If a police officer deems it appropriate, he may set and notify traffic rules.]
Section 140
[Upon finding a traffic violation, the police officer may give a verbal warning or issue a written order to the driver to report at a police station. In the event of the driver is nowhere to be found, a written order shall be left on the vehicle at a conspicuous place.
In issuing a written order to a driver to report to a police station, the police officer may temporarily seize the driving license by issuing a driving license replacement, which shall be valid for driving for a period not exceeding seven days.]
Section 141
[One may pay the fine by sending a money-order or bank-cheque with the copy of the written order.]
Section 142 (1000B)
[The traffic officer or competent officer shall have the power to order a driver of a vehicle to stop the vehicle upon:
1. The condition of the vehicle not being correct according to the provision of Section 6
2. Having a cause to believe that the driver of or a person in such vehicle violates or does not compoly with the provisions of this Act or the law on such vehicle.
In case the traffic officer, the inquiry officer or the competent officer see that the driver violates to the Section 43 (1) or (2), they can order the driver to be tested whether he lacks of ability to drive or whether he's intoxicated.
In case the driver refuses to be tested, the officer may keep him in custody for a necessary period of time to examine. If the driver is normal, he shall be acquitted promptly.]
Section 143 (1000B)
[If a motor vehicle doesn't satisfy Section 6, the traffic officer may issue a written order to service the vehicle.]
Section 144 (1000B)
[After the owner or driver of a vehicle pursuant to Section 143 have repaired the vehicle, he must bring the vehicle for inspection and receive a certificate before putting the vehicle in use.]
Section 145
The investigation officer shall have the power to investigate all the offences under this Act, and shall have the power to impose fines or give verbal warnings.]
Section 146
The fine payments under this Act obtained in Bangkok Metropolis or any Province or locality specified in the Notification of the Ministry of Interior shall be given in part to the Bangkok Metropolis or the Municipality of such Province for traffic management or wholly allocated to the locality specified in the Notification of the Ministry of Interior.
Title 19: Penalty Provisions
Section 147 - Section 160
Section 161
In the event a driver having committed an offence under this Act, the Commander of the Bangkok Metropolitan Police, the Commander of the Provincial Police, the Commander of the Traffic Police, the Commander of the Highways Police or the person authorized by the said officers shall have the power to seize and hold the driving license of such driver for not exceeding sixty days at a time.
The driver whose driving license is seized pursuant to paragraph one may appeal to the Director General within fifteen days from the day of the seizure of the driving license.
The Director General shall consider the petition and give the decision to either seize or not seize the driving license within one month from the day of receipt of the appeal. Such decision of the Director General shall be final.
Section 162
In a lawsuit that a driver is convicted by the final judgment of the Court for the commission of an offense under this Act or the law governing such vehicle, besides the penalty that such driver is liable under such provision but, if it appears to the Court that the driver is likely to cause danger to persons or property of other persons if allowed to drive, the Court shall have the power to order the suspension or revocation of the driving license of such person.
Section 163
With regard to a lawsuit that there is a commission of an act that violates or does not comply with the provisions of this Act or the law governing such a vehicle, if such violation or non-compliance has caused damage to the traffic signals or traffic signs installed by the competent officer, the Public Prosecution Officer, upon prosecuting the offender, shall demand for compensation for the damage inflicted upon the said traffic signals or traffic signs.
