Following the terrible tragedy in Saraburi where 19 bus passengers were killed following a collision with a lorry (who's driver apparently fell asleep at the wheel) it is time the transport authorities and police in Thailand seriously tackle this situation. A statement in the Bangkok Post is quoted as saying the ministry is looking into the safety of double decker buses I would point out that these types of vehicles,as used in Europe,are perfectly safe if driven in a sensible proffessional manner and that the wieght distribution when loading is taken into account. What would help in creating a safer situation is the introduction of the following:-
1) The introduction of professional compulsory training of all HGV and bus
bus drivers. This self taught system is just plain crazy.
2) The introduction of the tachograph system to all lorries and buses.
Thus recording information as regards to the drivers working hours but also
at what speed the vehicle is travelling at any given time during its
journey. If these regulations are enforced rigidly, as in Europe, falling
asleep at the wheel through excessive working hours should cease.
However this is Thailand I cannot see this level of control being implemented