Nong Cartoon’s mother gives up after decade-long legal battle

The mother of a 6 year old girl has decided to give up after a decade-long battle for justice. The young girl was left bedridden and severely disabled after a reckless drunk driver crashed into a steakhouse at the entrance of Soi Ekachai 119, 10 years ago. Nong Cartoon’s father was killed in the incident.

The driver received a one-year prison sentence and was ordered to pay 6 million baht in compensation but has evaded full accountability since his release.

Nong Cartoon’s mother recently took to social media to express her frustration and sorrow. She explained that with the statute of limitations expiring in a few days, continuing the fight seems pointless. The incident occurred on September 19, 2014, and the legal recourse will expire on September 19. She poignantly summarised their ordeal by stating, “Fighting leads to loss, and not fighting also leads to loss.”

The tragic story began when a modified pickup truck, driving under the influence, lost control and crashed into a steakhouse. The crash resulted in the immediate death of Nong Cartoon’s father and left the young girl severely injured. Nong Cartoon, only 6 years old at the time, suffered catastrophic injuries, including brain damage, leading to her becoming a bedridden patient. Her family’s life was irrevocably changed.

“The result of street racing in Thailand: one dead, one child disabled. The punishment is merely a year in prison and no financial compensation, despite court orders.”

Despite the court’s order for the driver to compensate 6 million baht, he has managed to avoid payment through legal loopholes. By not owning any assets for ten years and enduring a subsequent three-year bankruptcy period, he effectively sidestepped his financial responsibilities. This has left Nong Cartoon’s family to bear the brunt of medical costs and life adjustments alone.

Irrevocable damage

The victim’s family has been shattered. The mother has had to find ways to finance her daughter’s lifelong medical care, a burden that is both financially and emotionally exhausting. Nong Cartoon’s brain was 75% damaged from the impact, rendering her unable to see, speak, or perform any bodily functions independently. Her survival is a daily struggle, marked by costly medical expenses and the constant care she requires.

“If the victim has no money, they must endure the 10 years and then find funds to hire a lawyer to file for bankruptcy against the perpetrator.”

Several lawyers have offered their assistance over the years but often had to withdraw due to their commitments and the financial strain involved. Nong Cartoon’s mother expressed deep gratitude for their help, though acknowledging the limitations they faced.

The emotional toll on Nong Cartoon’s mother is immense. She described the pain of watching her child, who can only communicate through smiles and tears, without understanding the reasons behind her expressions. The thought of what will happen to her daughter if she can no longer care for her is a constant source of anguish, reported KhaoSod.

“In reality, life doesn’t always have a happy ending.”