Efforts are underway to push for amending the law on drunk driving causing death by increasing penalties to 7–15 years, after a survey found 91% support. The aim is to enhance law enforcement, create deterrence, and stop neglecting the lives of fellow travelers.
On 25 Sep 2026 at the Best Western Hotel, Chatuchak, Bangkok, the Academic Center for Road Safety (ศวปถ.) and the Safe Road Policy Foundation (มนป.), supported by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (สสส.) along with law enforcement and road accident prevention partners, held a press conference titled “Voices of the People Toward Increasing Penalties for Drunk Driving.” The event highlighted the situation and impact of drunk driving problems, presented public opinions on penalties for drunk driving causing death, and provided data to inform reconsideration and strengthen prevention and law enforcement measures for greater effectiveness.
Dr. Thanapong Jinwong, manager of the Academic Center for Road Safety, revealed that police statistics show 62,451 drunk driving cases from January to September 2026. Meanwhile, surveillance data from 2019–2023 indicate 284,253 total injuries and deaths from alcohol-related road accidents, averaging 56,850 per year, with economic and social losses exceeding 373 billion baht. This demonstrates that despite strict enforcement of drunk driving laws, they have not effectively deterred offenses or created sufficient fear of punishment (Deterrence Effect).
Ms. Kruemart Srichan from the Quality of Life Development Network conveyed public support for harsher penalties. The need for legal reform is further emphasized by a survey conducted by the สสส. partner network of over 3,000 people, finding 91.3% favor increasing penalties for drunk driving.
This survey aligns with a Thairath Online poll showing 87.7% of the public support increasing prison terms to 7–15 years, and 91% agree that those who cause death by drunk driving must serve actual prison time without probation. More than 86% believe current laws are not strong enough to effectively deter offenders.
The press conference included a panel discussion featuring experts, scholars, and related networks who shared their insights.
Mr. Teera Watcharapranee from the Network of Alcohol-Free Organizations reflected on the situation and impacts of alcohol consumption, noting that amendments to the Alcohol Control Act directly affect the risk of road accidents.
Dr. Taetngern Siripanich, Secretary-General of the No Drink-Drive Foundation, explained the key principles behind pushing for the law amendment to increase prison terms to 7–15 years. The proposal is based on the severity of the offense, proportionality of the penalty, and its relation to the offense of negligence causing death.
