Phuket Police to Enforce Strict Traffic Crackdown Starting April 1

The Phuket Provincial Police has issued a warning to motorists, announcing a tougher approach to traffic law enforcement starting April 1.

Authorities explained that March 31 marks the end of a nationwide “leniency phase,” during which officers were encouraged to issue warnings instead of fines whenever possible. Although it remains unclear how consistently this policy was applied in Phuket, officials have confirmed that stricter enforcement will now take effect across the island.

From April 1 onward, police say there will be no more tolerance for violations. Offenders can expect immediate penalties, including fines and possible arrests, instead of prior warnings.

Law enforcement will focus on ten key violations considered the leading causes of road accidents, fatalities, and serious injuries:

• Speeding

• Driving in the wrong lane

• Running red lights

• Dangerous overtaking

• Driving without a license

• Not wearing a seatbelt

• Riding without a helmet

• Drunk driving

• Using a mobile phone while driving

Police emphasized that safer driving habits are essential to reducing accidents and protecting lives. Drivers are urged to change their behavior proactively rather than waiting to be penalized.

Statistics from 2025 show that more than 30,500 traffic fines were issued to foreign drivers in Phuket. Russian nationals accounted for nearly 12,000 of these violations, reflecting both their large presence on the island and frequent use of rented vehicles.

In addition, authorities are preparing for heightened road safety measures during the Songkran holiday period. A special enforcement campaign is scheduled to run from April 10 to 16, when traffic volumes and accident risks traditionally increase.