Bangkok: The Department of Land Transport has issued a warning regarding pickup trucks that have been modified with additional leaf springs and are carrying loads exceeding their intended capacity. These modifications pose a significant risk of serious accidents on the road, endangering both drivers and other road users.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sorapong Paitoonpong, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport, Ministry of Transport, highlighted that many privately owned pickup trucks are being altered to carry heavier loads beyond their designed capacity and safety standards. Such modifications can lead to impaired vehicle control due to longer braking distances, axle breakage, tire blowouts, or loss of control. Vehicle manufacturers design components and structures, including the braking system, to support specific weight limits to comply with safety standards set by the Department of Land Transport.
To ensure safety, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) mandates that vehicle owners who have modified their vehicles in ways that deviate from registered specifications must have these vehicles inspected by the DLT. They must also amend vehicle details in the registration certificate before use. For modifications involving leaf springs, owners must submit essential documents for approval. These documents include a certificate of structural integrity from a licensed professional engineer and a photograph of the engineer supervising the modification, in accordance with Department regulations under the Motor Vehicle Act B.E. 2522 (1979).
The Director-General emphasized the importance of public safety, urging vehicle owners to be aware of the risks associated with vehicle modifications and carrying loads that exceed manufacturer and Department standards. This initiative aims to prevent the risk of road accidents for all road users.