Bangkok: The Department of Land Transport has issued recommendations for selecting chartered vehicles during the Loy Krathong festival, emphasizing the importance of safety and compliance with regulations. The Department advises travelers to choose vehicles that are properly registered and equipped with GPS tracking systems. Additionally, travelers are encouraged to verify the history of both the vehicle and driver, meticulously plan their trips, and adhere to legal speed limits.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sorapong Paitoonpong, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport, highlighted the increasing use of chartered public vehicles for travel during the festival. To ensure safety, he urges travelers to plan their journeys carefully to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience. The Department recommends several guidelines for selecting a chartered vehicle to guarantee a safe trip.
Professional operators are expected to inspect vehicles and drivers for safety in compliance with the Department’s standards. The vehicles should have yellow license plates, indicating registration as public buses, and must be equipped with GPS tracking. This allows the public to monitor real-time driving behavior and speed through the “DLT GPS” mobile application. Insurance coverage is provided under the Motor Vehicle Accident Victims Protection Act of 1992 and its amendments. Vehicles must be in top condition, have passed inspections, paid the necessary annual tax, meet all standards, and be equipped with safety features such as seat belts, emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and window hammers.
Drivers are required to possess a public driver’s license, be well-rested, and familiar with the route. A driver change or rest break is mandatory after four consecutive hours of driving. Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited, with a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and drugs. Compliance with the Ministry of Public Health’s regulations on controlled herbs, including cannabis, is required. Safety and adherence to the law are prioritized, with drivers advising passengers to wear seatbelts and providing guidance on the use of safety equipment in emergencies.
The Director-General further emphasized the importance of ensuring that contractors comply with agreements or contracts before starting any journey. In cases of non-compliance, such as mismatched vehicle registration, unsafe vehicle condition, or the absence of a valid driver’s license, employers have the right to terminate contracts and demand compensation for damages. Travelers must maintain speed limits throughout the journey, and any issues should be reported immediately to the driver or the Department of Land Transport’s hotline at 1584 to ensure passenger safety.