Deal sought for accused driver

Chonlawit Hiranchatchawan was the driver of a Mini Cooper allegedly involved in the crash. His lawyer Kerdphol Kaewkerd, who also represents Hong Zae Li, the owner of the car and Chonlawit’s grandmother, met police to discuss legal matters related to the crash.

Assumption University student Chotika Prasarnsophon, 22 and her friends were injured by the Mini Cooper while helping victims of an earlier accident on May 19. News of the incident spread online until police found the suspect’s car on Sunday.

Kerdphol said Chonlawit drove back home after watching football with his friends. Driving at high speed, Chonlawit was shocked when he saw two cars parking, so he swerved to the right and hit Chotika and her friends. He fled the scene without helping because he was panicked, and told no one.

Following news reports about the accident, he confessed to his grandmother that he had hit the victims. Hong assigned Kerdphol to meet police and visit the victims, to say they would be responsible for them. Hong and Chonlawit were upcountry but confirmed that they would meet police, the lawyer said.

He said Chonlawit was 17 when the incident occurred, and could not have had a driving licence.

Pol Lt-Colonel Natthapol Kominchart, the deputy superintendent of Express Way Traffic Control Police Centre 1, said he believed the two did not intend to escape. Police would accuse Chonlawit of neglectful driving causing people to be severely injured and fleeing the scene. The suspect may face jail of up to three years and/or a fine up to Bt6,000.