Flying squads could tackle drunk drivers
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I agree with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha that it is the driver's responsibility to never drive while under the influence of alcohol, and yet that is the cause of most of the 300 traffic deaths that occur each New Year and Songkran.
Thailand has the second-highest road-fatality rate in the world and must make its highways safer.
Without of ban on alcohol sales and with breathalysers in short supply, the police should form flying squads to check drivers during the holidays. Squads of deputies under the direct supervision of cops could issue a ticket if the policeman in charge judged it warranted.
Objecting drivers could be taken to the nearest breathalyser and his fine doubled if he were indeed over the limit. These squads would be self-financing, with receipted proceeds divided among members and the affiliated police stations.
Since PM Prayut decided not to ban alcohol during the holidays – and did not order any steps to reduce the fatality rate – he should insist on
being held accountable and personally attend the funeral rites of each DUI-related fatality.
Burin Kantabutra
Bangkok
