Bangkok: A delivery rider is pleading for justice after being sued by victims of the Makkasan intersection train-bus collision. The rider, who was ultimately charged with negligent driving causing death and drug use, is facing charges alongside the train and bus drivers.
According to Thai News Agency, a 31-year-old delivery rider presented CCTV footage of the train-bus collision at Makkasan intersection on May 16th. Initially considered a victim, he later became a suspect, facing charges including negligent homicide and drug use, despite having no history with drugs. He is now seeking justice.
The delivery rider recounted that on the day of the incident, while picking up a customer from the Ratchada area to drop them off at Chulalongkorn University, he encountered traffic congestion at Makkasan intersection. Many vehicles were parked around the intersection, and the railway crossing barrier had not yet been lowered. He drove to a stop near the yellow line to avoid the train tracks.
Shortly afterward, the train collided with a bus, which then hit several other vehicles. His own vehicle was damaged, and he and his passenger sustained minor injuries. After the incident, he took the customer to the hospital before returning to file a police report and provide a statement as a victim. He also brought the customer to give a statement as requested by the police. Due to the damage to his car, his insurance compensated him 31,000 baht, which he used as a down payment for a new vehicle.
In July, he was notified to meet with the prosecutor and discovered that he was being prosecuted along with six other people involved in the incident, including the bus driver, the train driver, and others. He was unaware of his status as a defendant until then. Unable to secure bail in time, he was detained in jail for one night.
The rider expressed concern about the charges, particularly the drug-related accusations, which he insists are false. He worries these charges could affect his career and future job applications, as he is a daily wage earner supporting his family.
Ekaphop Lueangprasert, founder of the "Sai Mai Must Survive" Facebook page, stated that initial investigations indicate the rider stopped on the yellow line, where stopping is prohibited. However, a key issue requiring clarification is why he was charged along with other suspects, including charges related to death and drug use.
Police Colonel Uramphon Khundechsamrit, Superintendent of Makkasan Police Station, revealed that the case file is with the prosecutor. Being listed as a defendant does not mean he will be charged with every offense. If there is no evidence confirming drug use, each case will be considered individually based on facts and evidence.
As the case is currently with the public prosecutor, it is recommended that the individual contact the prosecutor directly to clarify which charges are being filed. Being named as a defendant does not automatically mean guilt or a criminal record; the case must go through the court process.