Investigation report on the impact of alcohol consumption on fatality in a road traffic collision between a motorcycle and a 6-wheel truck on Highway 2101(Na Khu–Huai Phueng), Na Khu District, Kalasin Province, December 2025

Abstract

Background: On December 24, 2025, at 16:15 hours, the Surveillance and Rapid Response Team of Na Khu District was notified by the Emergency Medical Department of Na Khu Hospital regarding a road traffic collision between a motorcycle and a 6-wheel truck. The incident occurred at kilometer marker 3 on Highway 2101 (Na Khu–Huai Phueng Road) in Ban Wang Wiang, Village No. 6, Na Khu Sub-district, Na Khu District, Kalasin Province. In response, the Na Khu District SRRT initiated a field investigation on the same day at 16:35 hours. The primary objectives of this study were to verify the event timeline, confirm injury diagnoses, delineate epidemiological characteristics, identify underlying causes and associated risk factors, and formulate evidence-based preventive and control measures to mitigate future road traffic injuries.

Methodology: A retrospective review of the victims' medical records was conducted, supplemented by a comprehensive on-site investigation of the crash scene and a physical assessment of the involved vehicles. To establish data triangulation, structured interviews were performed with the accident victim, community leaders, and local residents residing within a 1-kilometer radius of the crash site along Highway 2101. Multi-level factors contributing to the occurrence of the collision and subsequent mortality were systematically analyzed using the conceptual framework of Haddon’s matrix model.

Results: The incident involved two casualties: the motorcycle rider was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver of the six-wheel truck sustained no injuries. The contributing factors include: human factors, including pre-crash alcohol consumption, lack of a driver’s license, non-use of a safety helmet, driving under the influence, and critical misjudgment; vehicle factors, characterized by the motorcycle's safety equipment limitations and substandard vehicle condition; and environmental factors, as the crash scene was an intersection within a community setting with inadequate road shoulders and insufficient safety measures.

Conclusion and Discussion: This accident resulted from multifactorial risks. An intoxicated motorcyclist attempted an unsafe road crossing without rearview mirrors, leaving an oncoming 6-wheel truck insufficient braking distance. Environmental hazards included narrow road shoulders, absent speed-reduction signs, and a malfunctioning traffic warning light. Consequently, local administrative organizations and the Department of Highways must install speed-limit signage, fix traffic signals, and widen road shoulders on this route. Concurrently, healthcare facilities and law enforcement should partner to communicate risks and strictly enforce regulations regarding helmets, seatbelts, and drunk driving. Sustained public awareness campaigns are also essential to cultivate safety mindsets and ensure all motorists hold valid licenses, maintain compulsory insurance, and pass vehicle inspections bi-annually.