Just how safe are Bangkok taxis?
A few days ago two happy French tourists rang for a taxi to take them to Suvarnabhumi Airport. After two weeks of wonderful holidays it was time to go back home.
Alas, on the way to the airport the cab met with an accident.
The result was a fractured tibia, broken teeth and multiple facial wounds. The tourists were sent to a nearby hospital.
When contacted, the taxi-insurance company confirmed it would cover medical expenses up to Bt30,000, as contractually obliged. Of course, the tourists’ hospital bill plus the cost of flying home in their injured state was far higher.
Fortunately, they had travel insurance, which covered the balance of the expenses incurred.
At a time when the authorities are checking the reliability and safety that Thai airlines afford their passengers, it would also be good to know precisely what protections are extended to the passengers of our metered taxis.
Only Bt30,000? Think about that on your next trip.
Francois Dore
