Cops get tough on chatting drivers

A new law affecting Chiang Mai motorists passed last month and implemented a few days ago bans the use of mobile phones while driving a car or a motorcycle. This has been put in place to counteract the number of road accidents caused by the driver of a vehicle losing concentration by talking on a mobile, phone. In an attempt to ease the change, any handsfree technology will be acceptable for now.

Drivers caught in violation of the new law face fines between 400 and 1000 baht, and police have been on the streets of Chaing Mai informing local drivers and tourists alike about the new rules. A parade left from the Airport Plaza shopping centre and continued along Hang Dong Road where explanatory leaflets were distributed to the public. The parade and the new law has been endorsed by Zoom Technology Ltd, who will provide a free headset or a Bluetooth device to people who can pass a Q&A relating to the new rules.