Helmet up or pay up: Starting June 1, Thailand will fine motorcycle riders 2,000 baht for not wearing a helmet — and double that if their passenger goes bare-headed too. (Photo – Police handing out helmets during Songkran to promote road safety.) PATTAYA, Thailand – Starting June 1, new, tougher traffic penalties will come into effect nationwide, including in Pattaya — a city well-known for its laid-back charm, chaotic traffic, and helmet-optional attitude. The Royal Thai Police announced that drivers of motorcycles who fail to wear helmets will face a fine of up to 2,000 baht. But that’s not all — if a passenger is also caught without a helmet, the rider will face double the fine: 4,000 baht. This is part of a larger campaign dubbed the “Safe Roads Project”, spearheaded by the national traffic police. The initiative targets key roads known for high accident rates or frequent traffic violations — particularly those near schools — aiming to enforce existing laws more strictly. Authorities say the goal is clear: reduce fatalities and set a better example for the next generation. Under Section 122 of the Land Traffic Act, both motorcycle drivers and passengers are required to wear helmets. But in reality, enforcement has been spotty at best. Pattaya’s streets are often filled with tourists and locals alike zipping around helmetless, especially in beach areas and nightlife zones. Critics have long pointed out that while traffic laws exist on paper, they’re frequently ignored in practice — unless a big holiday, campaign, or crackdown is underway. The latest push includes public awareness efforts, partnerships with local governments and schools, and calls for private businesses to help spread the word. While the effort seems comprehensive, many expats and residents remain skeptical. “The timing always seems more about optics or revenue than real safety,” said one Pattaya resident. “We’ve seen similar campaigns before — with checkpoints popping up overnight, collecting fines, then disappearing again.” Indeed, the perception persists that road safety campaigns in Thailand often start with big promises but fade quickly once the press attention dies down. Helmet laws, drunk-driving checks, and seatbelt rules come and go in waves — visible only when they’re being enforced. Still, the problem is real. Thailand consistently ranks among countries with the highest road accident fatality rates in the world. The government has stated repeatedly that it wants to bring those numbers down — but doing so will require more than fines. It will take consistent, unbiased enforcement, safer infrastructure, and long-term commitment. As June 1 approaches, riders in Pattaya and across Thailand may want to think twice before leaving their helmets at home. Whether this new push marks real change or just another round of “fine first, ask questions later” remains to be seen. Because at the end of the day, the road to safety isn’t just paved with higher penalties — it’s paved with consistent action.