Seventy-Three Drivers Hit by Falling Asphalt on Rama 9 Road

At least 73 motorists have filed police reports after falling asphalt damaged vehicles on Rama 9 Road in Bangkok, with Mercedes-Benz, BMW, electric vehicles and passenger cars among those affected. The victims went to Huamark Police Station to report damage caused by asphalt that fell onto vehicles traveling on the outbound side of Rama 9 Road, between the Rama 9 and Ramkhamhaeng intersections. The road was undergoing resurfacing work on an elevated section when the asphalt reportedly fell onto passing vehicles.

The latest person to file a report was Chantima, 29, the owner of a gray Honda City, becoming the 73rd reported victim. She filed a complaint with deputy investigator Parama Lodsukho at Huamark Police Station, stating that asphalt fell onto her car as she was driving home from work. After stopping, she discovered damage along the vehicle's right side, extending from the front bumper to the rear bumper, though the car remained driveable. She is seeking compensation from the contractor and other parties involved, urging them to take greater precautions and schedule roadwork at times when traffic is lighter.

Police said they would arrange discussions between the victims and those responsible over compensation. Investigator Thawanun Ngoen-yuang at Huamark Police Station said police had contacted the contractor and informed the company that the incident could constitute negligence resulting in damage to other people's property. Victims have continued to come forward, with the 73rd person filing a report at about 13:00 on Friday, and police believe the number of affected motorists could increase. The contractor has acknowledged the incident and expressed willingness to compensate victims for the damage. Numerous vehicles have been affected, including Mercedes-Benz and BMW cars, electric vehicles and other passenger cars, with some sustaining damage to their hoods, roofs and trunks after asphalt droplets landed on or splattered across them.