Phuket U-Turn Barrier Destroyed
A newly installed U-turn barrier in Thalang was smashed in a hit-and-run, sparking outrage and viral videos online. Authorities hunt for the fleeing driver.
A spectacular crash on Phuket’s Route 402 saw a brand-new U-turn barrier demolished by a speeding sedan in a hit-and-run. Could better lighting have prevented this shocking incident?
Crash Caught on Camera
The accident occurred late Tuesday, September 16, near the Thalang power plant in Baan Lipon, Srisoonthorn. A sedan slammed into the newly built “Safe & Seamless U-Turn” barrier with a deafening crash, then vanished into the night.
Installed less than a month ago, the concrete barrier now lies in ruins, leaving repair crews with their first major job since the project began. Social media users were quick to comment on the shocking footage, with many blaming poor visibility for the collision.
Social Media Outcry
“No lights at night, speeding cars can’t see,” wrote one user. Another added: “The barrier is on the wrong lane and there are no traffic signals.” Others reminded drivers to slow down: “People just need to drive carefully,” noting that CCTV cameras were already installed to monitor the area.
Pol. Col. Nikorn Chuthong, chief of Thalang Police, confirmed that the driver has yet to be found. “We are reviewing camera footage and have not identified anyone. No arrests have been made,” he said.
Safety Project Under Scrutiny
The barrier was part of a safety initiative along Thepkrasattri Road (Route 402), Phuket’s busiest highway, led by Rotary District 3330 and the Patong Rotary Club in partnership with the UK-based Safer Roads Foundation. The project had previously been a success, with no fatalities in the test zone over the last four months and improved emergency response times.
Yet this dramatic incident has renewed concerns over visibility, lighting, and driver awareness at the modified intersections. Authorities are now under pressure to ensure that safety improvements do not become hazards themselves.