Drunk British Driver Crashes Into Barrier in Front of Chalong Traffic Station, Raising Phuket Safety Concerns

On 24 June 2026, a few hours after midnight, CCTV and mobile phone footage circulated on social media showing a foreign man driving into and striking a barrier placed in the middle of an intersection in Chalong subdistrict, Mueang Phuket district—directly in front of the traffic police service point. The incident not only alarmed people traveling in the area but also reignited concerns about road safety in Phuket.

Chalong Police reported that the driver is a British man estimated to be 35–45 years old and was detained immediately after the crash. An initial breathalyzer test indicated alcohol levels above the legal limit. Vehicle inspection found damage to the bumper and to the sidewalk. Officers have charged him with drunk driving and reckless driving causing property damage and are conducting further investigations.

The footage shows the vehicle approaching at speed before plowing into the barrier placed to block the intersection. Police and bystanders quickly secured the scene, and there were no serious injuries. However, the incident angered local residents and tourists who regularly use the route. Many questioned law enforcement and measures to prevent accidents involving intoxicated tourists, which have increased during the high season.

Phuket is a popular tourist province with heavy traffic from both locals and visitors. Drunk driving is not new, but the recurrence of such incidents and the wide distribution of video evidence have prompted local authorities to review their response measures. Traffic police at Chalong station said they will increase random checkpoints and step up public messaging to entertainment venue operators, urging them to warn customers that if they drink to excess they should use hire cars or public transport.

The impact on the community and tourism goes beyond physical safety; it also affects Phuket’s image among domestic and international visitors. Local businesses that provide car rentals and tours say drunk driving raises risks for road users and commercial property, and could drive calls for stricter local measures—such as limiting alcohol sales hours in certain areas or strengthening oversight of nighttime public transport services.

In the long term, many communities are calling for relevant agencies to coordinate with tourism operators and venues to develop accident-reduction guidelines, including road safety campaigns, staff training to handle intoxicated customers, and promotion of safer transport options like licensed hire vehicles or app-based taxis. Police say they will prosecute according to the law to set an example and reduce repeat incidents, and Phuket residents hope this will make the roads safer for both locals and visitors.