Thais and horn use on the road

[hhinner]

I still remember my first bus trip from Bangkok to Pattaya back in the 80s. Every vehicle we passed, 2 honks. Every vehicle that passed us, 2 honks. That was a lot of honks.

I think it's still in the Thai "highway code" that overtakers should honk. Actually I do this when passing motorcyclists who are busy with other things rather than paying attention (phone, zits, conversation, looking at shops, applying make-up, etc).

[HHTel]

I do that when 'undertaking' which of course is illegal, but when drivers (including the police) drive on the outside lane on an empty 3 lane highway, it's the only way of passing.

[hhinner]

I do that when 'undertaking' which of course is illegal, but when drivers (including the police) drive on the outside lane on an empty 3 lane highway, it's the only way of passing.

Perfectly legal on a road with two or more lanes in the same direction, as long as safe to do so.

[hhinner]

https://driving-in-thailand.com/land-traffic-act/

Sections 44 - 49 cover overtaking.

You can pass on the left under the right conditions. Passing going up hill is more difficult.

[HHTel]

Section 45 (400-1000B)
[No driver shall overtake another vehicle from the left-side unless:
a. the vehicle to be overtaken is making a right turn or has given a signal that he is going to make a right turn
b. the roadway is arranged with two or more traffic lanes in the same direction.]

That, although not explained, means lines of traffic moving at different speeds. It does not mean that you can overtake on the left just because some clown is driving in the right lane needlessley.

It's further covered in the act pointing out that drivers should always drive in the outermost left lane unless that is a bus lane.

The general rules in Thailand were originally copied from the UK rules.

My instructor always told me that if the lane to your left is empty, then you should be in it.

[buksida]

Wherever the road rules in Thailand were copied from is irrelevant as nobody, including the "police", abides by them! Hence the proclivity for over usage of that horn - just very strange that Thai drivers find it so offensive - they should be expecting it!

[HHTel]

Agreed. There are many aspects of the Thai psyche that I don't understand. Fortunately it doesn't apply to all Thais.

There are things that are taken as an offence which are difficult to understand. However that probably works both ways.

[Robinhood]

The use of the horn back in the 80s/90s was proper. Use the horn now, and you're probable going to find somebody taking offence.

Out of interest Robinhood, do you live centrally or out of town somewhere?

I'm central Hua Hin. I only drive now and again and hire a car. I'm guessing road manners vary by region and city/rural?

[squire]

I've just got my 5-year license at Ch-am Road Transport Office. Be aware they now have a booking system.

[Mod edit: title changed to reflect content.]

Hi, would you please elaborate on the renewal process in Cha-am when you renwed. How long is the queue for booking, e.g., do you have to book weeks in advance or just a day or so? and did they accept a yellow tabien baan in lieu of a residence cert from Immigration? Were you required to pass all the usual physical tests, or were some forgone due to covid transmission risks?

Thanks

[buksida]

Might be better for this thread: viewtopic.php?f=44&t=37780