Transportation is quite a developed sector in Thailand, with Bangkok being a major transportation hub in Southeast Asia. The transportation system of the country, however, is not entirely developed, though it is increasing at a rapid rate. The highway system which was mainly built between the 1960s and the 1070s, consists of 64,600 km (40,142 mi) of roadway, with modern lane highways now connecting Bangkok with the entire country. In 2003, the registered motor vehicles included 3,115,000 passenger cars and 4,580,000 commercial vehicles. Our law firm in Thailand can provide more details on this matter.
Inland transportation legislation in Thailand
If you are looking to open a company in Thailand that involves transportation with a vehicle, there are certain regulations which must be obeyed.
The inland transportation in Thailand is governed by the Civil and Commercial Code on Carriage. The Code sets a strict liability basis for the carrier of goods, being liable for the loss or harm of the goods or delays in delivery except if it can be proven that such events were caused by force majeure, the nature of the goods or because of the consignor (the goods seller) or consignee (the goods buyer).
As about passenger transportation in Thailand, the Code rules that the carrier of passengers is liable to a passenger for any injuries or harms resulting from delay, except if they were caused by force majeure or by the passenger’s fault.
Driving legislation in Thailand
In Thailand, driving is regulated by the Motor Vehicle Act B.E. 2522.
To legally drive in Thailand, one must be aware of the following rules:
• To be able to drive, an individual must be at least 18 years old;
• The legal BAC (blood alcohol concentration) limit is of 0.5 mg per 1 liter of alcohol;
• Similarly to the UK, the traffic takes place in the left-hand side;
• Seatbelts are compulsory only for the front seats, while child car seats are discretionary;
• Motorcyclist have to wear helmets;
• The speed limit is:
o 50-60 km/h in suburban roads;
o 90-120 km/h on highways;
o Because of the busy traffic, the average speed is often determined by the traffic flow, not a traffic sign;
• Have on you the vehicle registration and driver’s license all the time while driving.
If you need to register a company in Thailand with activities in the transportation sector, please get in touch with our Thai lawyers, who can offer you the information on the appropriate legislation.