Driving in Thailand can sometimes be quite daunting. Busy roads along with poor driving skills can sometimes put foreigners off driving here.
Having lived in Thailand for over 10 years, I have had some of the best holidays when I simply drove myself. I certainly feel safer being behind the wheel than putting my life in the hands of an impatient bus or mini-van driver!
I am also glad to say that I have never had a serious accident, although I have had a few minor knocks on my motorbike, I have had no issues behind the wheel of a car.
Driving in Thailand can be fun!
I personally grew tired of being herded onto a bus and driven to a destination already occupied by countless tour groups. Having the freedom to go where you want to go, and when you want to go is extremely rewarding.
Even if you live in Thailand and simply want to be able to get from A to B on your own, it can be a lot less stressful than a chaotic and dangerous taxi ride. Although I have experienced some very safe driving here, I have also been in the back of a taxi where on returning home I simply never wanted to go outside again!
So whether you plan to drive in Thailand as a tourist or as an expat is is extremely important to know the laws of the road and one such law is that every car and every driver needs to have some basic insurance.
Car Insurance in Thailand
Thailand has options when it comes to car insurance which can suit most people’s differing financial budgets. As Thailand can see over 60,000 accidents a year it doesn’t matter how safe a driver you are, you may find that at some point you will be victim to an accident. Being a foreigner too can see you singled out as the driver at fault, even if you were not. High legal fees, medical costs or even 3rd party repair bills can cause huge financial problems, and we haven’t even considered the personal costs yet!
Level 1 Car Insurance
That is why we will focus on the top end insurance option; full comprehensive Level 1 car insurance – ประกันรถยนต์ชั้น1. Level 1 car insurance certainly is the most expensive, and over twice the price of the next alternative. It is however worth the cost, especially if you drive a top end car. Having a representative at the scene of an accident to protect your interests is vital so that you don’t get taken advantage of, and having full cover over any possible type of accident means you will not have any unexpected and expensive bills sent your way. Level 1 car insurance is the only cover that protects you from everything on the list below:
- Accidents involving you alone (hitting a wall, or ditch for example)
- Collision
- Full medical expenses of everyone involved
- Theft
- Natural disaster cover and fire damage
- Acts of terrorism
- All 3rd party damage and injuries
Conclusion
Level 1 car insurance is expensive, but if within your budget range a must have to ensure the issues of dealing with legal matters in a foreign country are taken care of as stress free as possible. And at around $5-600 a year, it only seems expensive when compared to the level 2 and 3 options they have here in Thailand!
