Bangkok: The Governor of Nan Province has directed the Provincial Justice Office to extend support to the families of those who lost their lives in a devastating accident in Pua District, which claimed the lives of nine people. The assistance includes a maximum compensation of 300,000 baht for the families affected by this tragedy.
According to Thai News Agency, the accident involved a pickup truck carrying 22 villagers from Ban Jun, Pa Klang Subdistrict, who were returning from a fishing trip in Bo Kluea District. The truck, carrying relatives, crashed at kilometer 8+700 on Highway 1256, at the Huai Yen curve between Ban Na Lae and Ban Mon, Woranakorn Subdistrict. The vehicle's brakes reportedly failed, leading it to hit a guardrail, overturn, and fall off the road. Among the deceased were four schoolchildren. Initial investigations point to brake failure and the hazardous curve as potential causes, though authorities are continuing their inquiry to determine the exact cause.
In response to the tragedy, the Governor of Nan has mandated the Provincial Justice Office to visit the site and inform the victims' families about their entitlement to assistance under the Act on Compensation for Victims and Compensation and Expenses for Defendants in Criminal Cases. This act stipulates that in cases of death, up to 300,000 baht can be provided, which includes funeral expenses and compensation for loss of support. For cases of disability or loss of limbs, compensation will be issued according to the established rates, with a cap of 300,000 baht.
Medical expenses will be covered up to 80,000 baht, while rehabilitation costs, both physical and mental, can be reimbursed up to 50,000 baht. Additionally, loss of income will be compensated based on the province's minimum wage for up to a year. Other damages will be compensated as deemed appropriate by the committee, with a maximum of 100,000 baht. The compensation process for victims of criminal cases will adhere to the legal guidelines provided.