Pattaya Drivers Jailed: 10K Highway Race Ends in Crash
Twelve drivers involved in a high-speed, late-night road race near Pattaya received two-month jail sentences and had their driving licenses revoked. This followed a spectacular pile-up that shut down a section of the Bangkok-bound motorway. The Chon Buri District Court delivered the verdict on Friday, concluding a swift legal process after the defendants confessed to reckless driving and exceeding speed limits. The incident, which occurred at 2:20 a. m. on Sunday in Si Racha district, Chon Buri province, highlighted the dangers of illegal street racing and its potential impact on unsuspecting motorists.
The chaotic scene unfolded when one of the twelve racing vehicles lost control, colliding with an uninvolved driver’s car. This triggered a chain reaction, resulting in a mangled heap of metal encompassing all twelve racers' cars. Highway police responding to the incident reported four injuries and a complete traffic standstill while emergency crews cleared the wreckage. Images shared on the Highway Police Facebook page vividly depicted the extent of the damage; several vehicles appeared totaled.
Prior to the accident, CCTV footage revealed the group engaged in a dangerous high-speed pursuit spanning at least 10 kilometers. Reaching speeds between 130 and 180 kilometers per hour (approximately 80–112 mph), the mostly young racers recklessly weaved through traffic, posing a grave threat to other road users. This blatant disregard for safety culminated in the devastating pile-up, bringing their illegal race to an abrupt and costly end.
The confiscated vehicles, many with performance modifications, served as stark reminders of the allure and dangers of illegal street racing. While the two-month sentence and driving license revocation represent a significant penalty, it also underscores the limitations of the District Court’s jurisdiction. The District Court handles cases with a maximum sentence of three months or a fine of up to 60,000 baht. More serious offenses, with heavier penalties, fall under the Provincial Court’s purview.
This incident serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the severe legal and personal consequences of illegal street racing. Beyond the immediate impact on those involved, the incident disrupted traffic flow and endangered countless lives. The swift response of law enforcement and the judicial system sent a clear message: reckless driving will not be tolerated. It is hoped this incident will deter future illegal racing activities and promote greater driver responsibility on Thailand’s roads. Authorities will likely continue to monitor traffic patterns and rigorously enforce speed limits to prevent similar occurrences.
