Truck driver slams into parked 18-wheeler and dies

PHUKET: The driver of a pickup truck died early this morning after slamming full throttle into the back of a parked 18-wheeled truck on Thepkrasattri Road.

Annurak Chompoo, the 40-year-old driver of the 18-wheeler, told police that he had parked on the side of the road with his hazard lights turned on as he prepared to make a delivery to Makro.

“That was when Thasapong Unsiam, 38, slammed into the back of the18-wheeler,” Lt Col Sanit Nukong of Thalang Police said. “Witnesses said the pickup truck suddenly veered into the 18-wheeler without braking.”

Police found no skid marks at the scene, confirmed Col Sanit.

Rescue workers provided emergency medical care to Mr Thasapong. However, he was pronounced dead on arrival by doctors at Thalang Hospital.

“We aren’t sure exactly what happened. It is possible that he fell asleep at the wheel. However, we are waiting for blood alcohol tests and further examination by doctors before drawing any conclusions,” Col Sanit said.

Mr Thasapong’s relatives will have to meet and negotiate compensation with the company responsible for the 18-wheeled truck, Col Sanit confirmed.

— Winai Sarot