Phuket Police warn of slick roads after new graduate dies in motorcycle accident

PHUKET: Police issued a warning about driving on rain-slicked roads after a new graduate of Phuket Rajabhat University was killed in an accident on Saturday night.

“People need to drive very carefully when it rains, because the roads are slippery. Motorcyclists must wear a helmet. If you’re involved in an accident, it could save your life,” said Capt Narong Muangdoung of Thalang Police.

No helmet was found at the scene of the crash.

The warning came after Jutrat Kattakian, 23, was killed just before 10pm in front of Srisoonthorn Pharmacy in the southbound lane of Thepkrasattri Road.

Ms Jutrat had been driving with a friend, Montha Sriphoka, also 23, on the back of the motorbike.

Ms Montha told police that the pair were heading to Phuket Town.

“After it started to rain, the road got slick, and our motorbike slid and fell down. I got up as fast as I could and ran to the median, but Jutarat couldn’t get up in time and the Mazda pick-up truck that was following us hit her,” she said.

“She flew into another pick-up that was parked by the side of the road and hit the wheel.”

The driver of the Mazda, Thanakom Ritthichoti, 34, told police, “I tried my best to brake, but I couldn’t stop in time. I hit the girl, then crashed into a parked car.”

Mr Thanakom has been charged with reckless driving causing death, said Capt Narong.

The two women had just graduated from university.

“We were getting ready to take a test in Phang Nga to become teachers,” said Ms Montha.

— Thawit Bilabdullar