This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.

What happens if you're in an accident in Thailand without medical insurance, and how are ambulance services structured?

Apr 1, 2025
2 days ago
Gregory ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
I was wondering if anyone knows what the situation is regarding ambulances in Thailand. If you didn’t have medical insurance and were hit by a motorcycle sustaining a broken leg, where would you be taken?
1,319
views
1
likes
28
all likes
14
replies
0
images
11
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
In Thailand, if you are in an accident without medical insurance, local ambulance services operated by volunteer groups will take you to the nearest hospital. You can choose a hospital if you feel capable of communicating your preference. For a better hospital experience, private ambulances can be arranged, but they must be called directly. It is noted that legal motorbikes have some insurance coverage, providing a certain amount for injuries. In emergency situations, ambulances typically have contracts with specific hospitals and will take you there first, allowing later transfers if needed.
เฮินรี่ *********
I was taken to a goverment hospital, but like said before, im not sure if it was their ambulance. Once I was just taken home because I didnt want to go hospital because nothing too big.
Jeff *******
Well if you're unconscious, the first thing they'll do is remove your wallet, and if deceased you can kiss goodbye to your gold too!
Nongnuch ********
the ambulances have contracts with a hospital nearby and will take you to their contractors first. You can then ask to be transferred to another hospital of your choice
Guy *********
In my similar circumstance, i was taken to the nearest hospital then transfered to Lopburi hospital. After a week or so i decided to transfer to Maharat hospital in Korat. To do this you just hire a ambulance service like a taxi, work out the price and away you go.
Lynnette *******
You'd use your travel insurance. You'd have your bike licence and IDP, tell them you'd be riding a bike and make sure you're covered for accident.
Ning ******
thai's first aid is manage by which ever rescue group (unpaid workers and money are donated by people who they have help etc.) that operates in the area that you are in. they will take you to the nearest hospital. if you want nice hospitals like bumrungrand etc, you have to call them to arrange a private ambulance to pick u up.
Ning ******
i have a accident with a car many years back, i am cycling and the car turn left and i flew on top of his car. rescue workers came, told them i will go hospital by myself after going to the police station. officer say i can go private hospital, but the insurance will not pay doctor's fees. i pay, than go to the car driver's insurance company to file a report. they paid..
Carrie ******
I mean, I have denied ambulances before. I told people not to call, because I didn't feel like it was that necessary and dramatic, and then I went to my hospital of choice. If you're conscious and able to communicate, then you could realistically go wherever you choose to
Meaw ************
Every legal motorbike has 30,000 baht covered
Tony ******
@Meaw ***********
that's if it's valid tax
Lynnette *******
@Meaw ***********
for personal injury?
Rene ******
@Lynnette ******
no third party liability. The 30k is the franchise for Thai people in their health system.

Road tax has to been paid for coverage

(Afaik)
Lynnette *******
@Rene *****
the guy was asking about medical ins if injured in an accident. I'd expect he'd need his own insurance
Hafceey *********
I don't know
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
... members · 60% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else