BANGKOK– The traditional Thai New Year, Songkran, is a time for celebration, water splashes, and family reunions. However, it also marks one of the deadliest periods on Thailand’s roads due to drunk driving and excessive speed.
New data released by the Department of Probation reveals a worrying trend as the “Seven Dangerous Days” campaign continues. Despite heavy enforcement and public awareness campaigns, thousands of motorists are still choosing to get behind the wheel while intoxicated.
On April 15, 2026, Pol. Capt. Piya Raksakul, Director-General of the Department of Probation , provided a somber update on road safety statistics. Over the first five days of the Songkran holiday (April 10–14), authorities recorded a staggering total of 3,961 court-ordered probation casesrelated to drunk driving.
The breakdown of these cases highlights a persistent culture of driving under the influence:
- Drunk Driving:3,726 cases (making up 94.07% of the total)
- Driving Under the Influence of Drugs:230 cases (5.8%)
- Reckless Driving:4 cases (0.1%)
- Street Racing/Speeding:1 case (0.03%)
The sheer volume of drunk driving cases—averaging over 700 arrests per day—suggests that for many, the message of “Don’t Drink and Drive” is still not hitting home.
Chiang Mai Tops the List of Offenders
As the holiday progresses, certain provinces have emerged as “hotspots” for traffic violations. According to the report from Thairath , the northern tourist hub of Chiang Mai currently leads the country in drunk driving arrests.
Top 3 Provinces with the Highest Drunk Driving Statistics:
- Chiang Mai:651 cases
- Samut Prakan:317 cases
- Nonthaburi:266 cases
The high numbers in Chiang Mai are likely linked to its status as a major destination for Songkran festivities, where large crowds and prolonged celebrations often lead to increased alcohol consumption.
The Department of Probation isn’t just counting cases; they are actively working to change driver behavior. Under the theme “Safe Driving, Reduced Speed, and Probation for a Safer Society,” officials have implemented strict measures for those caught breaking the law.
Rather than just paying a fine and walking away, many offenders are required to perform social service activities. This year, the department has organized 18 public service points where 357 individuals on probation have been assigned to assist officers in helping the public.
In addition to physical labor, offenders are required to attend educational workshops. These sessions focus on:
- Traffic laws and the legal consequences of violations.
- The physical and mental dangers of alcohol consumption.
- Developing a sense of social responsibility to prevent future accidents.
The goal is simple: ensure that those who made a mistake during the holiday return to their homes in Bangkok or their provinces with a new perspective on road safety.
The Push for a Safer Journey Home
As the Songkran holiday winds down, millions of people are beginning their journey back to the capital. This transition period is often when fatigue sets in, increasing the risk of accidents.
Pol. Capt. Piya Raksakul emphasized that the Department of Probation is maintaining its “intensive measures” across the country. They are urging the public to remain vigilant and prioritize safety above all else. The department’s strategy focuses on three main pillars:
- Strict Enforcement:Ensuring that those who break the law face immediate court-ordered probation.
- Public Participation:Involving offenders in community service to show the real-world impact of road accidents.
- Awareness:Constantly reminding drivers that one bad decision can lead to a lifetime of regret.
While the authorities are doing their part, road safety is a shared responsibility. If you are traveling during the remainder of the holiday season, keep these tips in mind:
- Never drink and drive:Even one drink can impair your judgment and reaction time.
- Use public transport:If you plan on celebrating with alcohol, use taxis or ride-sharing apps.
- Take breaks:If you are driving long distances, stop every two hours to rest and stretch.
- Check your vehicle:Ensure your tires, brakes, and lights are in good working order before starting your trip.
The Songkran festival is a time of joy, but it shouldn’t be a time of tragedy. By following the law and looking out for one another, we can help reduce these statistics and make Thailand’s roads safer for everyone.
