PATTAYA, THAILAND – A 51-year-old motorcyclist was seriously injured in the early hours after crashing into a moving 18-wheel truck at a busy northern Pattaya intersection.
Crash at busy Nongprue intersection
In the night leading into Saturday, the collision occurred at about 2:30 a.m. at a signalised junction near the motorway access road in the Nongprue area, according to emergency responders. The intersection was considered heavily trafficked, particularly during the ongoing New Year travel period.
Rescue workers from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation in Pattaya were alerted to a crash involving a motorcycle and a large tractor-trailer. On arrival, they found a heavily damaged motorcycle and a rider in shock.
Rider injured and suspected of alcohol use
Police identified the injured man as Buchit Wamaket, 51. He suffered multiple abrasions across his body and showed clear signs of alcohol influence, officers said.
Paramedics provided first aid at the scene before taking him to Pattaya Memorial Hospital. No life-threatening injuries were initially reported, but further examinations at the hospital were required.
Motorcycle wedged under truck wheels
Not far from the victim, helpers discovered a purple Honda Air Blade whose front end was completely destroyed. The remains of the motorcycle were stuck under the wheels of an Isuzu 18-wheel truck, registered in the southern province of Songkhla.
At the moment of impact, the truck was already passing through the intersection. The force of the collision drove the motorcycle sideways into the midsection of the moving trailer.
Video evidence contradicts rider’s claim
According to officers, the injured rider was barely responsive and spoke incoherently at the scene. Nevertheless, he insisted the traffic light had been green for him.
Police then reviewed surveillance cameras at the junction. Investigators stated that the footage clearly showed the motorcycle entering the intersection on a red light and striking the flank of the moving truck.
Possible charges for drunk and reckless driving
Police in Pattaya continued their investigation and prepared legal action. Potential offences under consideration included endangering road traffic through reckless driving and driving under the influence of alcohol.
Officers said they were assessing further evidence and medical findings before filing formal charges.
Accident during sensitive New Year period
The incident took place during the New Year holidays, when the region traditionally saw heightened warnings about accidents caused by alcohol and excessive speed. Police and rescue services were on duty with additional checks and standby teams during this period.
Investigators viewed the case as another example of the risks of alcohol consumption in road traffic, particularly at night at heavily used intersections.
Questions over how to prevent such crashes
“One mistake – and everything could have been over.”
said an unnamed commentator.
“A red light, one drink too many, a wrong second. How many images like this does it take before it is clear that alcohol and traffic do not go together?”
said the same voice in a reflective remark.
“Penalties, appeals, campaigns – or is it ultimately always the personal decision that saves or destroys lives? What has to happen for such accidents finally to stop?”
said the commentator, raising broader questions about road safety and personal responsibility.