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    Traffic Accident in Thailand: What to Do as a Foreigner (Step-by-Step)

    What to do immediately after a traffic accident in Thailand — police reporting, insurance claims, liability determination, and protecting yourself from common scams.

    12 minUpdated: 2026Timeline: Immediate — follow these steps at the sceneVaries (police report free; insurance excess THB 1,000-5,000)

    Overview

    This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of Traffic Accident in Thailand: What to Do as a Foreigner (Step-by-Step), including required documents, timelines, and expert tips to help you navigate the process successfully.

    6 steps to complete

    Step-by-Step Process

    1

    Ensure Safety & Call Emergency Services

    Immediate

    Move to safety if possible. Call 1669 (ambulance) if anyone is injured. Call 191 (police) or 1155 (Tourist Police). Do NOT leave the scene — leaving is a criminal offence.

    Tips

    • 1669 = ambulance/medical emergency
    • 191 = police emergency
    • 1155 = Tourist Police (English-speaking)
    • Take photos BEFORE moving vehicles if safe to do so
    2

    Document Everything at the Scene

    10-15 minutes

    Photograph: vehicle positions, damage to all vehicles, license plates, the other driver's ID/license, road conditions, traffic signs, and any injuries. Get witness contact details.

    Tips

    • Use your phone's timestamp feature
    • Photograph the other driver's license and insurance documents
    • Record a video of the entire scene
    • Note the exact time and location
    3

    Exchange Information

    5 minutes

    Exchange: names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, insurance company details, and driver's license numbers. Do NOT admit fault or apologize — this can be used against you.

    Tips

    • Do NOT say 'sorry' or admit fault — even out of politeness
    • Get the other party's insurance policy number if possible
    • If they refuse to share information, note their license plate — police can trace it
    4

    Wait for Police

    30-60 minutes

    Police will arrive and create an accident report. They determine initial fault. Give your statement clearly. Request a copy of the report — you need it for insurance claims.

    Tips

    • Stay calm and cooperative with police
    • Call Tourist Police (1155) if you need an interpreter
    • Do NOT sign anything in Thai you don't understand
    • Request a copy of the police report with case number
    5

    Contact Your Insurance Company

    Same day

    Call your motor insurance company immediately. They will send an assessor. If you have first-class insurance, your insurer handles everything. For third-party only, you must negotiate directly.

    Documents Required

    • Police report
    • Photos of damage
    • Other driver's details
    • Insurance policy number

    Tips

    • Thai insurance companies are generally efficient
    • First-class (Class 1) insurance covers your vehicle + the other party
    • Third-party (Class 3) only covers damage you cause to others
    6

    Negotiate Settlement or File Claim

    1 day - 3 months

    Most minor accidents are settled at the scene or within days. For serious accidents, your insurance company negotiates. For uninsured drivers, you may need to pursue a civil claim.

    Tips

    • Minor damage: often settled at the scene with cash payment
    • Insurance settlements: typically 1-2 weeks
    • If the other driver is uninsured, file a civil claim
    • Keep ALL receipts for medical treatment and repairs

    Requirements

    • Valid driver's license (Thai or International Driving Permit)
    • Vehicle insurance (compulsory third-party minimum)
    • Phone with camera for documentation

    Tips & Warnings

    Pro Tips

    • ALL vehicles in Thailand must have compulsory third-party insurance (Por Ror Bor) — check yours is current
    • First-class insurance is strongly recommended for foreigners — it covers everything
    • In Thailand, fault is often shared — 'comparative negligence' is common
    • Many accidents are settled informally with cash at the scene — get a signed receipt if you do this
    • Dashcams are legal and highly recommended — they're the best evidence

    Important Warnings

    • NEVER leave the scene of an accident — 'hit and run' carries imprisonment
    • Driving without a valid license VOIDS your insurance — you pay for everything
    • Do NOT pay 'compensation' to anyone at the scene without police present — it's often a scam
    • Foreign drivers are often blamed by default — insist on police documentation
    • Motorcycle accidents without a helmet: your insurance may not cover injuries

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