Lampang: Authorities are preparing to file charges against a drunken man who claimed to be a government official and drove a Fortuner that sideswiped a Camry. The incident escalated when the man, who insisted on going to sleep first, refused to negotiate, prompting the other driver to cut him off and call the police, leading to a near-brawl.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident occurred around 9:30 PM on Thipwan Road near the Sri Chum intersection in Lampang Municipality. A silver Toyota Camry was driving normally when a black Toyota Fortuner swerved, scraping the Camry's front and rear. Despite the Camry driver's request for the Fortuner to pull over, the driver ignored them. The situation intensified when the Fortuner driver identified himself as a government official and claimed to have a gun.
Police officers arrived promptly, gaining control of the situation and conducting a breathalyzer test on the Fortuner driver, which showed a high blood alcohol level of 225 milligrams per cent. A search of the vehicle revealed two bottles of Thai brandy, one empty and the other half-empty. It was later discovered that the driver was a former government official who had resigned 2-3 years ago.
The former official was charged with reckless driving causing property damage and drunk driving. He was released on bail of 20,000 baht and is scheduled to appear in court today. The damages were covered by the insurance company, with a total payout of 50,000 baht for repairs and lost time.
Mr. Chakrit, the Camry driver, and his wife, who documented the incident, expressed that they did not initially intend to demand compensation. However, the perpetrator's refusal to comply with the breathalyzer test and his demand to sleep infuriated them, leading to their pursuit of justice and protection of their rights.