A tragic bus accident in Khao Yoi, Phetchaburi, left 36 people injured, including nine American tourists, after the vehicle veered off the road and crashed into a high-voltage pole. The incident occurred on Phetkasem Road (inbound to Bangkok), near the Pho Kaew Rice Mill Underpass, on the morning of March 14th, 2025.

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According to the Khao Yoi Police, the tourist bus, carrying a mix of local and international passengers, was traveling from Ranong to Bangkok when the driver, reportedly dozed off due to fatigue. The bus veered off the road and collided with a high-voltage power pole, snapping it in two.

Emergency responders arrived swiftly at the scene to find the bus severely damaged and passengers in distress. The bus was carrying 15 Thai nationals, 12 Burmese workers, and 9 American tourists, all of whom sustained injuries ranging from minor to severe.

The injured were quickly transported to Khao Yoi Hospital and Phra Chom Klao Hospital for treatment. Among the 36 injured, three individuals are reported to be in critical condition, while the rest are stable. Medical teams are working around the clock to provide care, and authorities have assured the public that all necessary resources are being utilized to ensure the best possible outcomes for the victims.

At least 14 travellers were injured when their bus struck a public water pipe and a power pole in Phetchaburi province early Friday.

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— Bangkok Post (@BangkokPostNews) March 14, 2025

The bus driver admitted to falling asleep at the wheel due to exhaustion. He stated that he had been driving for an extended period without adequate rest. Police are investigating whether fatigue or other factors, such as road conditions or vehicle maintenance, contributed to the accident.

The involvement of foreign tourists has also drawn international attention, with the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok reportedly offering consular assistance to the injured American citizens.

Local authorities have pledged a thorough investigation into the crash and have emphasized the importance of holding accountable those responsible for negligence. They have also urged bus operators to prioritize passenger safety by ensuring drivers are well-rested and vehicles are properly maintained.

The investigation is ongoing, and charges may be filed against the driver and the bus operator depending on the findings. Meanwhile, efforts are being made to assist the injured and their families, including providing updates on their conditions and facilitating communication with foreign embassies.

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Note: Phetkasem Road is a major highway in Thailand, connecting the southern provinces to Bangkok, and is frequently used by long-distance buses.

-Thailand News (TN)