Fuel truck overturns on Hua Hin bypass after driver falls asleep
A fuel truck carrying 16,000 litres of fuel overturned on the Hua Hin bypass late on 13 April, causing a petrol leak and prompting a major emergency response.
The accident happened at 9.49pm on Highway 37, southbound, at kilometre marker 36+700 in Thap Tai. The Prachuap Khiri Khan Highway Police Rescue Centre coordinated with police, district officials and other agencies after receiving reports that petrol was leaking from the vehicle.
The driver, identified as 57-year-old Praphan, was not injured. Officers said no alcohol was found in his system, and he admitted he had dozed off at the wheel.
The tanker had left an oil depot in Samut Sakhon and was transporting fuel to a petrol station in Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan district. It was carrying 8,000 litres of gasohol E10, 4,000 litres of E20 and 4,000 litres of diesel.
Authorities work to contain fuel truck leak
Officials said the tanker overturned into a roadside ditch and came to rest upside down. Water trucks and emergency crews were deployed to spray the area and reduce the risk of fire, while traffic was partially closed and diverted.
Authorities prepared a crane to lift the tanker upright before checking the tank for cracks or further leaks. If the tank was damaged, fuel would be transferred out by a PTT OR team to prevent further danger.
Firefighters also remained on standby with foam fire engines in case the situation worsened. No other injuries were reported.
