Bus crash victims in Thailand can claim up to 500,000 baht

A devastating accident involving a public passenger bus travelling from Bangkok to Nathawi, operated by Srisiam Tour Company Limited, resulted in the tragic loss of 14 lives and left 35 injured. The incident occurred on Petchkasem Road, between kilometres 331 and 332, in Huay Yang, Thap Sakae, Prachuap Khiri Khan yesterday.

The Consumer Organisation Council clarified the rights of those affected by such accidents. For those injured or suffering losses from a public passenger vehicle accident, compensation can be claimed as follows:

Under the Accident Victim Protection Act, victims can request medical costs, paid directly to the hospital, up to a limit of 80,000 baht. In the event of a fatality, compensation is set at 500,000 baht per person.

Permanent disability or loss of organs could lead to compensation ranging from 200,000 to 500,000 baht per individual. A daily compensation of 200 baht, for a maximum of 20 days, is provided for those hospitalised, reported KhaoSod.

In addition, victims can seek compensation from voluntary motor insurance. Medical costs exceeding the limit of the Accident Victim Protection Act (in case of death, a minimum of 500,000 baht per person) can be claimed. The details depend on the insurance policy of the company.

Claims may include:
1. Pain and suffering from injuries
2. Damaged or lost property at the time of the accident
3. Other damages such as loss of opportunity, loss of amenities, and loss of income.

If consumers suffer losses from a public passenger vehicle accident and are unfairly compensated by the service provider, insurance company, or relevant agency, they can file a complaint with the provincial office in Prachuap Khiri Khan at 032-908-288, 061-436-5554 or Line Official (Line OA): TCC032 or Facebook: Provincial Office Prachuap Khiri Khan, Consumer Organisation Council.

Complaints can also be filed online with the Central Consumer Council at the website https://www.tcc.or.th/, Line Official (Line Official): @tccthailand, Facebook Inbox: Consumer Organisation Council, email: complaint@tcc.or.th, or phone: 02 239 1839, press 1.