Ahead of the usual Songkran traffic mayhem, the Department of Skill Development of the Thai Labour Ministry is offering car inspection services, free-of-charge, at its skill development offices throughout the country until Wednesday.

Deputy government spokesperson Tipanan Sirichana said that the department’s service centres will inspect tire inflation, engine condition, oil level, the lights, signals and the radiator.

She said that the inspection will be carried out by instructors and experienced car mechanics. Motorists, as well as motorcyclists, can bring their vehicles for checks at the Skill Development Institute in Bangkok or their offices, which are mostly located along main highways, before travelling during the Songkran festival.

She said that, while car inspections can help reduce road accidents to a certain level, drivers too must be physically fit, refrain from drinking or using their mobile phones while driving and must strictly observe traffic rules for their own safety and the safety of other people.

Millions of Thais are expected to travel during the Songkran festival and road accidents are expected to rise during the festive period. Historically, most of the accidents involve motorcyclists.