Tourism
Songthaew Accident in Phuket Leaves Seven Injured
A hotel-operated songthaew overturned on a steep curve in Kamala, Phuket, resulting in injuries to seven people, including foreign tourists.
On August 27, 2026, a songthaew (a modified pickup truck used for transport) operated by a hotel in Kathu district, Phuket, was involved in a serious traffic accident. According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand, the vehicle was traveling on the Kamala-Cherngtalay road when it lost control on a steep curve, crossed into the opposite lane, and overturned.
Local police from Kamala Station, led by Deputy Inspector Surasit Wandee, responded to the scene near a prominent hotel in Kamala sub-district. Upon arrival, authorities found an Isuzu Carry vehicle with a high roof lying on its side in the middle of the road. Emergency responders from Kamala had already transported the seven injured individuals to Patong Hospital for medical treatment. The injured group includes one Thai national, identified as Mr. Lukman, and six foreign tourists.
For travelers and residents in Phuket, this incident highlights the potential risks associated with navigating the island’s steep and winding coastal roads, particularly in areas like Kamala and Kathu. While the immediate medical needs of the victims are being addressed, the exact cause of the loss of control—whether due to mechanical failure, road conditions, or driver error—remains under investigation by local authorities. Travelers are advised to exercise caution when using hotel-provided transport on mountainous routes.