Yes driving in pattaya can be difficult.Driving in pattaya is indeed a precarious pastime and you will notice that in Thailand they drive on the left. Well thats the general idea, you will see pattaya traffic on either side of the road,,it just depends which is most convenient for the driver. Motorbikes are probably the worst offenders in particular motorbike taxis, they will and do go everywhere. I have almost been "assaulted" a number of times by seeing the road is clear for me to cross and stepping off the sidewalk only to have a near miss with a motorbike travelling the wrong way on the wrong side!
If you are unfortunate enough to be involved in one of the many daily accidents, no matter how it happened, you as a foreigner will in most cases be to blame, why? well if you had not been in Thailand the accident would not have happened!! Thats Thai logic. As I have seen it described. If it is a minor accident and the police do arrive on the scene they will often be the middle man in any negotiations on a "cash settlement" for any damage you have caused.
Also whether the road is clear or you are in the heavy pattaya traffic do be aware that drivers of cars and motorbikes will just appear out of side roads, often without even looking. Be aware that drivers may suddenly stop or turn or anything else you can imagine.. and as for indicators, forget it! I am sure there are rules for driving in Thailand but absolutely nobody seems to know them. All I can say is if you are driving in pattaya just be extra careful. Related pages Other pages Head back to the getting around page return from driving in pattaya- to- enjoy pattaya |
