Thai Drivers

     When you read the title of this post did you expect a negative rant about how bad Thai drivers are?  Well this is not that.  There are many characteristics of drivers in Thailand I admire.  Much of it had to do with attitude.  Long time readers of this post may remember that I resolved to use lessons learned here when I returned home last year, which was partially successful.
     The main difference I observe is that these drivers never seem to take anything personally.  The minibus driver will zip down an open lane and 'shoe horn' between cars into the next lane.  The driver of the vehicle cut off never gets upset, no horn honking, fist shaking, or finger salute.  I've never seen a case of road rage and the only horn honking is a beep to warn another driver of something that driver may not see.  I can't remember the last time I heard a horn in Bangkok!
    Thai drivers are very responsible users of torn signals.  Seldom do they turn or make lane changes without a signal.  That's particularly important given the rules under which motorcycles operate.
    So, with this said, why does Thailand have one of the worst records in the world for vehicle accidents and deaths?   Drunken driving is endemic with lax laws and enforcement.  Use of seatbelts is lax.  Many drivers do not drive safely, following to closely, speeding, and other have dangerous habits.  Children ride in vehicles unrestrained.  Small motorcycles carry up to five people including infants and small children.  Many riders do not wear helmets.  Many motorcycles operate at night without lights.  Roads are clogged with three wheeled samlors both motorized and pushed by hand.  Speed limits are posted but not enforced.   Motorcycles are not expected to operate by the rules used for cars.  Professional drivers drive long hours relying on chemicals to stay awake.  Workers and others ride in pick-up and truck beds.
    Given all those realities it is a blessing that road rage is not an issue!