Tips on how to drive a scooter in Chiang Mai

If you are planning to drive a scooter in Chiang Mai, Thailand, it’s important to be aware of the unique challenges you might face on the roads. As a person who has been driving in Chiang Mai for more than a year, I have a few tips on how to drive a scooter in Chiang Mai. I believe they might help you stay safe and comfortable on the roads. Keep in mind that traffic can vary greatly from city to city in Thailand. In Chiang Mai, the traffic is relatively light and the people are mostly polite. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always wear a helmet. While many Thai people don’t wear helmets when driving motorbikes, it’s important to prioritize safety and follow the law. Not wearing a helmet can result in a fine from the police.
• Consider using eye protection when driving, such as a face shield. Bugs and other debris can cause serious eye injuries.
• Always look back when turning right, especially if you are next to oncoming traffic lane. Thai drivers may overtake on the oncoming traffic lane when encountering traffic jams and speed up, so stay alert.
• Slow down when you see a bus standing in traffic, as people may suddenly get off the bus or run towards it.
• Be aware that drivers from oncoming traffic lane may suddenly turn into your lane. Stay calm and keep driving, as they will wait for you to pass.
• Don’t use left side of the road in junction if you don’t want to turn left, because drivers behind you don’t need to wait for the green light when they turn left – don’t block them.
• Be careful when car drivers try to get from side roads into main roads, as they may quickly get out half of their car on the main road and stop, closing off a lane. You might be provoked to stop, but it’s usually safer to keep driving.
• Be cautious at every junction, as many drivers don’t use turn signals or keep driving with a turn signal on long after turning.
• Since big trucks are the most popular vehicles in Thailand, drivers may not see your small scooter in their mirrors. Be extra vigilant.
• Be aware that there are many drunk drivers on the roads at night, so be cautious and stay alert.
• Dogs roam freely on the roads, so slow down if you see them on the side of the road.
• Roads can be slippery during rain, so slow down and be extra careful. Your stopping time will be longer than usual due to sliding.

To avoid looking like a tourist or mimicking Thai drivers, here are a few more tips on how to drive a scooter in Chiang Mai and rest of the Thailand:

• Don’t drive on a red light, even if other drivers are doing it.
• Don’t drive in the opposite direction of traffic, as Thai drivers sometimes do.
• Don’t drink and drive, as it’s illegal and dangerous.
• Be aware that Thai drivers don’t usually stop at zebra crossings when pedestrians are waiting to cross, so don’t be surprised if you don’t see anyone stopping. Don’t stop at zebra crossings suddenly, because cars behind you might not act quickly enough to stop as well.