In a quirk of nature it seems those who operate a motor vehicle like an idiot, or while drunk, or 'hopped up' on amphetamines usually kill or injure the innocent. None of the above types of drivers are an endangered species on the island and to observe them in there natural habitat just walk outside on any street, you will not have to wait long. Fleeing the scene of an accident when at fault has become almost expected behavior throughout the kingdom. My intention is not to scare you, but to remind you that traveling in a foreign country can be as perilous as it is pleasurable. The warm balmy climate, the natural beauty of the island, and the winding mountain roads, all make Phuket a natural for cruising around on a motorbike.
Motorbikes are the most common mode of transportation on the island.
Motorbikes are also the most common cause of serious injury and death on the island. No statistics are available as to the number of motorbike injuries sustained by visitors to Phuket but the number is substantial. Insurance is not available on any rental motorbike. If it is damaged or stolen you will have to pay it's for replacement plus any property damage or injuries caused to others. Phuket has and at times enforces a motorbike helmet law.