Speed limits in Thailand
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Speed limits in Thailand are a set of maximum speeds applicable on any road in Thailand. For small cars that weigh less than 1,200 kg (2,646 lb), the maximum limits within the built-up area and outside are 80 km/h (50 mph) and 90 km/h (56 mph) respectively.[1][2] The exception applies to motorways, in which small cars can use up to 120 km/h (75 mph).[3][4] Heavier cars, buses and trailer have more restrictive limits. Despite having the general maximum speed limits, the limits may be altered by a roadside sign.
Like any other countries, drivers who violate the speed limit may be liable to a punishment. Currently the offender could be fined up to ฿1,000.[5] Despite this, an amount on the ticket is set at ฿500.[6]
In addition to road transport, speed limits also applies to rail transport. The maximum speed for a locomotive-hauled passenger train is 90 km/h (56 mph); except a diesel multiple unit, which can speed up to 120 km/h (75 mph).[7]
Currently the road speed limits in Thailand are as follows:[1][2]
| Vehicle Type | Within the built-up areas
(km/h) |
Outside the built-up areas
(km/h) |
Within the motorway[3]
(km/h) |
Within the Expressway (km/h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car weighing 2,200 kg (4,850 lb) or less | 80 | 90-120 | 120 | 110
Elevated 100 |
| Bus and truck without a trailer | 60 | 90-100 | 100 | 90
Elevated 80 |
| Car weighing more than 2,200 kg (4,850 lb) | 60 | 90 | 90 | 90
Elevated 80 |
| Car or truck with a trailer | 45 | 65 | 80 | 90
Elevated 80 |
| Motor rickshaw (Tuk-Tuk) | 45 | 65 | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Motorcycle | 60 and 80 | 80 and 100 | Not allowed | Not allowed |
The exception can be made by putting a speed limit sign (a white circle with a limit on the centre, bordered with red stripe) or a city limit (an amber board as shown on the right) sign, telling a driver to reduce the speed as appropriate.
In addition to road vehicles, rail vehicles are also subject to the speed limits as follows.[7] The exceptions can be made as a general notification of the State Railway of Thailand.
| Type | Maximum speed
(km/h) |
|---|---|
| Locomotive-hauled passenger train | 90 |
| Diesel multiple unit | 120 |
| Freight and maintenance trains | 50 |
| Any trains being detached or combined | 10 |
Following figures are the speed limits for an ordinary railway line and a switch respectively. All the numbers are in km/h.
Speed limit for Thai railways. The upper figure shows the limit for diesel multiple units, while the lower limit applies to locomotive-hauled trains.
Switch speed limit. The upper number applies to straight-running trains, while the lower number is the limit for any diverging trains.
Engineering works speed limit. The driver must not exceed the specified speed until the train passes another sign cancelling the current limit.
