Almost 12k lose points in 3 weeks

Almost 12,000 motorists have been caught violating traffic laws and lost points under the demerit point system during the first three weeks of the policy’s implementation.

The demerit system, which was put in place on Jan 9, is part of the efforts to improve driving discipline and enhance road safety.

Of the total 11,548 offenders, the top three traffic offences were failing to display an annual tax payment sticker (3,557), driving without a licence plate (1,709) and speeding (1,686), according to the Royal Thai Police (RTP).

Chai Nat logged the most offenders (1,478) followed by Bangkok (1,427) and Khon Kaen (211).

Under the demerit point system, every driving licence holder begins with 12 points. If they lose all those points within a year, their licence will be suspended for 90 days.

Those who fail to comply with the suspension order will be liable to a maximum term of three months in jail, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both.

Speeding, riding without a helmet, using a mobile phone while driving, failing to fasten seat belts or failing to stop for pedestrians to cross at zebra crossings warrant a one-point deduction.

Two points are deducted for running a red light or driving on the wrong side of the road. More serious traffic offences, such as a hit and run, result in three demerit points being deducted.

The highest penalty of four demerit points is imposed for driving under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs, as well as being involved in illegal street racing and reckless driving.

A licence may be suspended for more than 90 days if a driver repeats the same offence three times in three years.

Their licence will be revoked for committing the same offence four times or committing a fourth offence.

Motorists can check all remaining points at the “ptm.police.go.th/eTicket” website or the Khub Dee application.

National police chief Pol Gen Damrongsak Kittiprapas yesterday urged motorists to strictly follow traffic regulations as doing so can reduce road accidents.

He also joined Dr Taejing Siripanich, secretary-general of the Don’t Drive Drunk Foundation, in presenting awards to conscientious motorists who reported traffic violations over the New Year period.