Malaysians planning to take their own vehicles across the border into Thailand are being strongly advised to secure comprehensive insurance coverage that explicitly includes third-party claims.
According to BERNAMA, the advisory comes in light of potential road accidents and the heavy financial liabilities that drivers might face while driving abroad.
Crucial protection against heavy compensation
According to Malaysia’s Consul General in Songkhla, Ahmad Fahmi Ahmad Sarkawi, having extended coverage is vital if a Malaysian motorist is involved in an accident that results in severe injury or death.
Beyond standard legal penalties or fines imposed on an offender, drivers can be held personally liable to pay substantial compensation or damages to victims or a deceased person’s grieving family.
“The compensation or damages involved are not small amounts. Therefore, adequate insurance can also cover the compensation costs,” Ahmad Fahmi noted during a courtesy call by a delegation from the Perlis Journalists Association at the Consulate General of Malaysia in Songkhla.
He added that his office has frequently encountered Malaysian drivers involved in accidents who lacked sufficient funds for victim compensation because their policies only covered hospital medical costs.
He also recommended obtaining coverage for vehicle damage caused by natural disasters.
Essential safety tips for Southern Thai roads
Beyond insurance, travelers heading down south are strongly reminded to exercise extra caution regarding safety and navigation:
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Avoid Night Travel: Malaysians are advised against traveling at night, particularly in high-risk areas like Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat due to ongoing security incidents.
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Stick to Reliable Navigation: Drivers are urged to use Google Maps or Apple Maps instead of Waze when navigating southern Thailand, as Waze can sometimes redirect motorists through shortcuts involving isolated villages and hilly terrain.
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