Bolt Driver Highlights Safety Concerns After Elderly Foreigner Falls From Songthaew in Pattaya
A Bolt driver has called for greater passenger safety awareness among songthaew drivers in Pattaya after an incident where an elderly foreign man, using a cane for mobility, fell from the back of a songthaew.
The incident, shared in a Facebook group for local Bolt drivers, occurred near an A-go-go bar in Soi Buakhao. A video showed the man attempting to disembark when the songthaew allegedly began moving before he could safely exit. The sudden motion caused the man to fall, but luckily, nearby good Samaritans, including nightclub security staff, helped him back to his feet.
The foreigner, who relies on canes for assistance, reportedly sustained minor injuries but chose not to press charges against the songthaew driver. Witnesses claim the driver, seemingly unaware of the situation, continued driving without stopping to check on the passenger.
Mr. Uthai Wongsi, a 49-year-old Bolt driver who captured the incident on video, explained that he witnessed the fall while searching for a customer. According to Mr. Wongsi, the songthaew driver’s lack of awareness contributed to the mishap.
The video posted by Mr. Wongsi sparked significant discussion on social media. Many commenters criticized the lack of attention by the songthaew driver, emphasizing the importance of ensuring all passengers have safely disembarked before moving the vehicle.
A statement from a Pattaya City Bus Cooperative officer added context, noting:
- “The driver was unaware because the passenger disembarked without pressing the bell. However, the cooperative has summoned the driver for a review to address the matter.”
Mr. Wongsi urged songthaew drivers to adopt a more cautious approach to passenger safety, especially for elderly or disabled individuals. He emphasized the need for all drivers to double-check before moving their vehicles, ensuring that no one is left in a vulnerable position.
This incident highlights the growing conversation around public transportation safety in Pattaya, particularly for elderly and disabled passengers. Many on social media have called for stricter protocols and greater awareness among songthaew drivers to prevent similar accidents in the future.