Van wrecked after driver crashes into large wild elephant
A 50-year-old female driver crashed her van into a large wild elephant in Thailand, sustaining injuries.
The incident occurred at about 3.15am on Monday (10 Aug), along Route 344 in Rayong Province.
Rescuers found the van severely damaged upon arrival.
Its windscreen shattered, and its roof and bonnet had collapsed.
Driver sustains cuts on head and face
The driver, identified as Ms Sujira, suffered cuts to her head and face.
Source: Siamrath
Emergency personnel helped remove her from the vehicle and provided first aid before transporting her to a private hospital in neighbouring Chonburi Province.
Ms Sujira initially reported chest tightness and sustained a laceration above her eyebrow that required 4 stitches.
Driver thought it was a large shadow
Ms Sujira was driving from her home to the market, carrying goods for her morning food business, when the incident occurred.
Her son, Thanadon Khamdee, who had been travelling with her, said they were driving along the road when they noticed a large object crossing in front of them.
However, because the area was completely dark, they brushed it off, thinking it was only the shadow of the large tree.
By the time they realised it was an elephant, it was too late.
Authorities believe elephant sustained injuries
The elephant cried out in pain, and the impact caused it to lose its balance and fall into a patch of grass by the roadside, Siamrath reported.
The animal, apparently injured in the crash, then walked away while crying in pain.
According to a Khaosod report, it headed into a canal before disappearing into the forest.
Wild elephant tracking teams and relevant agencies have deployed staff to locate the animal, assess its injuries and arrange treatment if necessary.
Motorists advised to be cautious
The authorities warned motorists to be extra cautious and reduce their speed when driving along Route 344, especially at night.
Officials also advise motorists not to sound their horns or rev their engines to shoo away wild elephants they encounter.
Instead, the authorities urge them to stop at a safe distance to prevent further accidents, adding that elephants regularly cross the road in the area.
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Featured image adapted from Siamrath.
