Traffic rules & hazards of Koh Tao

  1. Always drive on the left side of the road.
  2. Be careful with side roads and crossings – most local people turn into the main road without checking for oncoming traffic.
  3. Taxi drivers always have right of way; be careful as they sometimes drive fast!
  4. On a traffic crossing, don’t assume normal rights of way. Watch the other drivers, as generally there are no rules here!
  5. Wearing a helmet is mandatory by law! There is no proper hospital on the island, so always wear your helmet.
  6. Drive slowly and watch out for other vehicles, cats, dogs etc.
  7. Don’t drink and drive.
  8. Don’t use the front brake on sand. If you do so and slip, let go of the brake and apply the brake again after the sand.
  9. Watch out for holes in the road and speed bumps as they can catch you unaware.
  10. Check your fuel frequently so you don’t run out. There are 3 fuel stations on the island. There’s a minimum spend of 50 Baht. You can buy fuel bottles outside shops, but they are more expensive.
  11. Don’t accelerate when you start the engine.
  12. If you drive up a steep road with 2 people and you can’t go any further, stop immediately and let the passenger jump off. If you don’t do this, you’ll roll backwards and fall down.
  13. The passenger shouldn’t move too much or make any sudden movements and should sit close to the driver. This makes it much easier for the driver to control the bike.
  14. Drive with a bit speed into a steep road, especially with 2 people on the bike, to help you make it up the hill.
  15. Don’t drive through deep water.
  16. Don’t drive to Mango Bay or Laem Thian Bay – the roads are in really bad condition.
  17. Save Koh Tao! Don’t throw any rubbish on the ground or on the beaches, including cigarette butts. Take it back to your resort/villa.
  18. Please say no to plastic bags at all shops.
  19. Emergency Number: Rescue Koh Tao +66 (0) 879790191, Police Station: 191 or +66 (0) 77 456 098, Tourist Police 1155 or +66 (0) 77 430 018.
  20. If you have any problems call the shop on +66 (0) 983578178.
  21. Shop Hours: 08.00 – 17.00
  22. Thank you for your custom at Oli’s Motorbike Rentals! We hope you enjoyed your experience and would appreciate your positive feedback on Google Map/TripAdvisor/etc. If you’re writing a review about your hotel, please help us by adding a little comment about us too!
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