Nowadays, thousands of people choose to move by scooter when they are on vacation: in Thailand, for example, it is estimated that a large part of tourists opt for this solution, because the advantages that derive from this choice are many, and they are particularly effective if you want to optimize time and money, reaching quickly (and in total freedom and autonomy) any place you want.
The advantages and benefits of this solution are many, both from an economic point of view and from the point of view of autonomy and freedom of movement: however, if you choose this solution you must still be ready to face any emergency situations and for this reason it is necessary that you are familiar with all aspects (pros and cons) of driving a motorbike in Thailand. If you know the essential things about motorcycle riding, in fact, you will also be ready to prevent any emergency situation and, basically, also to deal with it in the best possible way.
In this small guide we have decided to show the practices and situations you need to know before renting a scooter in Thailand.
The first fundamental thing you need to know is that it is important to know the rules of the highway code: in fact, many people think that, precisely because they are on vacation, it is all legal, but in reality things are not like that at all: you do not just risk fines and penalties (which can also be very high) but mainly you risk your life and your safety, therefore it is good that you are very careful about how you drive and how you move.
Here are some important rules you need to know:
- Speed limit: as in Italy, here too every road has its own speed limit, which must be absolutely respected. In general, the limit is 50 km / h in cities, 90 km / h on open roads, and 120 km / h on the motorway: however, make sure to always read the signs present.
- The helmet must be worn: it is a question of safety and respect for others. You will not have to wear it only, but also your passenger: when you rent the motorbike, therefore, make sure that it is included in the rental or request it separately.
- The driving license must be recognized and valid for a type E motorcycle: therefore, you will need to be in possession of the International Driving License (IDP).
- Mobile phone use prohibited: if you do not have a hands-free kit, you cannot use your mobile phone for making calls or sending messages. If you need to make a phone call, stop!
- The minimum age to drive is 18 years.
These are some of the fundamental rules, but it is important that you inform yourself in advance about what you can do and what you cannot do, and what are the risks of your actions: for this reason, we advise you not to arrive here unprepared. Here are other important things you need to know.
- Never go around without a helmet: if you do not have a helmet, the problem is not only of an economic nature (that is, it does not concern only the fines and penalties you would face) but it concerns above all your safety: therefore, ask always a helmet for you and one for your possible passenger, because this choice will not only avoid fines and penalties, but will also be very important for your safety.
- Be cautious: it may seem like obvious advice, but it’s not at all. In fact, since it is a driving experience in a place that you do not know (or that you know very little) it is good that you pay particular attention and always remain vigilant: therefore, never push the accelerator more than necessary, and drive alert and cautious, as this will allow you to anticipate (and thus also avoid) many dangerous situations.
- Make the right use of the horn: in Thailand the horn is widely used to communicate with other motorists or motorcyclists. It is especially useful to signal the maneuvers that are about to be done and therefore, if used in the correct way, it allows you to avoid many accidents.
- Beware of cars and trucks: never stop too close to cars, especially when you are at traffic lights. In fact, if the driver (as often happens) is distracted and quickly opens the door of his car, it could hurt you.
- Find out about the correct insurance and all the bureaucratic aspects: when you rent a motorbike, make sure you have been adequately informed about everything you need to be in compliance. Therefore, always ask the rental company for information and choose one that acts with care and seriousness.
- Driving experience: if this is your first time riding a motorcycle, do not choose Thailand as a place of “baptism”. You could hurt yourself and be dangerous to others. Only opt for this solution if you already have a fair amount of experience.
- Use proper shoes and suitable clothing, even better if you bring a raincoat. Do not use the classic flip-flops or open shoes that are used on vacation (you can put them in the backpack and use them on the beach or during walks) but opt for suitable clothing, which allows you to not run any danger while driving or maneuvers.
- Don’t drink before driving. This should be a unique and always valid rule: if you have been drinking, do not drive the scooter, but prefer a walk and wait for the appropriate time to eliminate the hangover. Also, if it is not strictly necessary, do not drive at night: you prefer long journeys during the day, and stop in the central area during the evening, so you will be free to walk, safely, and you will also be free to drink a glass in more.