Ban on cell phone driving

The Thai Traffic Police Office declared that the NLA (National Legislative Assembly) had passed the 8th draft of the land transport act, paving the way for a new law to be imposed banning the use of a hand-held mobile communication device while driving.

Thailand’s move to outlaw using a mobile phone while driving is due to take effect on May 8 and is hoped to help curb worsening road traffic accident statistics in the country.

As with other countries that observe a similar law, individuals will still be able to use mobile phones while driving, albeit ones that are connected up to a hands-free device.

The law specifically details that mobile communication devices must not be held, or even touched, while driving.

Those who are caught using a cell phone while driving after May 8 can expect to be stopped and fined between 400 and 1,000 baht.

Road blocks will periodically be set up to catch perpetrators as with current road blocks for speeding motorists, tax/insurance violators, and for other offences.