Pattaya crash: Motorcycle passenger killed by foreign driver
A horror crash in Pattaya has claimed the life of a woman and left a man fighting for his life after a foreign driver collided with a motorcycle in a terrifying midday smash.
The tragedy unfolded yesterday, November 12, at 12:30pm in Nong Prue, a district in the resort city of Chon Buri, as confirmed by Police Lieutenant Colonel Jirasak Aebfaeng, head of the local investigation unit.
The emergency services arriving at the scene were confronted with a gruesome sight — a Honda motorcycle lodged into the bonnet of a silver sedan. The front end of the bike was completely mangled. At the same time, its rider, 30 year old Virat Sangthong, was found with horrific injuries, and his 33 year old passenger, Nidjaree Lomruen, was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
According to witnesses, the driver, identified as 40 year old Ekaterina Kutsepalova, was visibly shaken. Though reports suggest she was in shock upon realising the fatal consequences of the crash, police have yet to confirm her nationality.
The collision occurred on a road near Motorway No.7, just as the sedan approached a bridge spanning the motorway. The impact was so severe that it caused the motorcycle to be dragged more than 50 metres along the road.
Eyewitness accounts painted a grisly picture. One bystander described the aftermath.
“It was like something out of a nightmare. The bike was wedged into the front of the car. It was clear how serious the crash was.”
The police are continuing to piece together what led to the devastating accident, with investigations still ongoing.
At this stage, the police are looking into all factors, including the possibility of speed or distracted driving. It’s a reminder of how quickly a fun day out in the sun can turn into a tragic nightmare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why might foreign drivers face challenges navigating Thailand’s roads?
Differences in traffic laws, road conditions, and driving customs can create unfamiliar situations for foreign drivers.
How do cultural perceptions of road safety impact accident investigations in Thailand?
Cultural attitudes towards authority and safety may influence the thoroughness and transparency of investigations.
What if enhanced road safety measures were implemented in tourist areas like Pattaya?
Such measures could potentially reduce accidents, improving safety for both locals and visitors.
How might the presence of international tourists affect local traffic dynamics?
Increased tourist traffic can lead to congestion and higher accident risks due to unfamiliarity with local driving norms.
What role does public awareness play in preventing road accidents in Thailand?
Public campaigns and education on safe driving can significantly decrease accident rates and enhance road safety.
