Motorcyclists, beware on Thailand's roads!

Pedro Zwahlen, Switzerland’s ambassador to Thailand, has issued a warning in «Blick»: «In 2024, there were 20 motorcycle accidents involving Swiss citizens in Thailand—10 of which were fatal. These figures pertain solely to motorised two-wheeler incidents, and cover just a single year. »

According to the WHO, the ten fatal accidents involving Swiss citizens account for only a tiny proportion of all traffic accidents worldwide. For context, Thailand’s road traffic fatality rate stood at 25.4 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants in 2021, according to the Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023—ranking the country ninth among the world’s most hazardous nations for road traffic.

In 2021 alone, an estimated 18,000 people died in road traffic accidents in Thailand, according to the WHO—that’s roughly 50 fatalities per day. Of particular concern, in 2020, nearly 75 percent of all fatal road accidents involved motorcyclists.

Songkran: joy and danger collide

Caution is advised on Thailand's roads all year round. Traffic rules are often interpreted liberally – or simply ignored. Motorcycles, of which there are over 22 million in the country, are particularly often involved in accidents. These two-wheeled vehicles are also very popular with tourists.

Now, Thailand is facing its most dangerous days: the traditional New Year festival Songkran. What was once a reflective cleansing ritual has long since transformed into a vibrant water spectacle— filled with colorful festivities, water guns, and a joyful atmosphere that sparks childhood memories for both locals and visitors alike.

At the same time, the festival week has a serious downside: The so-called «seven deadly days» around Songkran are notorious for the dramatic increase in traffic accidents. Millions of people travel to their home provinces to celebrate with their families—often accompanied by plenty of alcohol. During this time, accident statistics reach their tragic peak. Motorcyclists, in particular, face an increased risk – extreme caution is strongly advised.