Driving habits in Thailand are appaling and most drivers are quite irresponsible and ignore simple safety rules. In contrast to the Thai's usual polite and peaceful behaviour, they become quite inconsiderate behind the wheel. Be very wary of your speed and always look out for bad drivers. Unlike many Western countries, it is very easy to pass a driving test here, so many drivers have little or no experience of driving either in town or on main roads. Many simply don't have a licence at all or any awareness of road rules. BE PREPARED AT ANY TIME FOR OTHER DRIVERS TO SUDDENLY PULL OUT IN FRONT OF YOU WITHOUT EVEN LOOKING, STOP WITHOUT WARNING, OVERTAKE DANGEROUSLY (AND ON THE INSIDE) AND IGNORE MOTORCYCLISTS. SOME PEOPLE JUST STOP AND PARK WHERE IT SUITS THEM, WEAVE THROUGH THE TRAFFIC WITH A DEATH WISH, RIDE THE WRONG WAY UP THE ROAD INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC and more.
From 'The Pattaya Guide', January 2009
I must say that we have come across all these behaviours (and worse!!!) while we have been here. Thailand is great in many aspects but driving here is sometimes scary. You can't help but be mind-boggled when you see some of the things we have seen on the road... I hope we don't start driving like they do :-P
