Speed cameras operational, but speed limit signs continue non-existent

PHUKET: Motorists speeding in Phuket now face a fine of 500 baht if they are caught by one of four speed cameras that became operational on Christmas Day.

The cameras are in undisclosed locations: one within Phuket City limits; one on the bypass road; one on Thepkrasattri Road in Thalang; and one in the Tah Chat Chai area (story here).

However, no speed limit signs will be posted to notify drivers of what the limit is.

“We don’t have any plans to put up speed limit signs because we assume people already know what the limits are,” said Lt Col Rungrit Rattanapagdee of the Phuket City Traffic Police Police.

“You can’t get a driver’s license without knowing that the limit within a city is 80kmh and outside of a city, 90kmh…

“That means that on the bypass road, the speed limit is 90kmh,” he said.

The speed cameras will not photograph drivers, Col Rungrit explained, just license plates.

“A ticket will be sent directly to the registered address of the owner of the car. If you operate a car rental business, please remind your customers not to drive over the speed limit,” he added.

When asked the range of the camera, Col Rungrit replied, “You don’t need to be concerned about the range if you don’t drive too fast.”

“Please maintain a speed in the 80-90kmh range as conditions allow, for your safety and the safety of other road users,” he concluded.

— Saran Mitrarat