Thailand's insurance regulator, the Office of the Insurance Commission (OIC), has revealed the road accident statistics from the seven-day travel period related to Songkran.
Figures released were based on a report from the Road Safety Centre of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, Ministry of Interior, and covered the dates from 10 to 16 April 2026. In total, there were 1,242 road accidents, resulting in 1,200 injuries and 242 deaths.
According to a statement from the OIC, the figures reflected the fact that road safety risks during festive seasons remained at a level that requires continued monitoring, despite stringent preventive measures.
Main causes of accidents
The main causes of accidents continue to stem from risky driver behaviours, including speeding, drunk driving and sudden lane changes, the OIC noted in its statement.
The regulator also highlighted that motorcycles were most involved in accidents, followed by pickup trucks and passenger cars.
Road accidents an unforeseen risk
OIC Secretary-General Chuchat Pramoonpol also conceded that road accidents are an unforeseen risk, thus making insurance a crucial safety net.
The statement further noted that this was especially true for mandatory insurance, which provides coverage to all parties involved in road accidents, while also ensuring timely assistance.
Voluntary motor vehicle insurance also covers additional damages to life, body and property, the OIC added in its statement.