Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Supamas Isarabhakdi on 1 October 2026 outlined assistance for vehicle owners affected by flooding. She instructed the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), which she oversees, to coordinate support – including towing, free repair estimates, discounts on parts and labor, insurance claims, and debt relief – while preventing unfair service charges.

The assistance follows the Government’s nine flood relief measures. Consumers have started reaching out to OCPB, and officials are coordinating with relevant agencies and businesses to handle individual cases. 

Ms. Supamas said, “People whose cars have been flooded already face difficulties. They must arrange towing and repairs while continuing to pay their installments. OCPB will assist them by providing guidance on point of contact, available discounts or benefits, and measures to prevent unfair towing and repair charges.”

For towing assistance, OCPB has coordinated with the Traffic Police Division, which reported that every metropolitan police station has two tow trucks available to assist the public. Assistance can be requested by calling the hotline 191. OCPB has also coordinated with the Tow Truck Association of Thailand to ensure that towing and flatbed services are priced fairly based on actual costs, without exploiting the situation by raising prices. Motorists can also contact insurance companies as an alternative channel to inquire about towing services. These services are not limited to existing policyholders, but users should check the conditions before booking.

For repairs,  OCPB has collaborated with the Insurance Central Garage Association to offer free repair estimates, discounts on genuine manufacturer-supplied parts, and parts warranties subject to each brand’s conditions. Meanwhile, the Thai Automotive Industry Association said several car manufacturers were offering discounts on parts, labor, and inspection fees, as well as free vehicle inspections. Vehicle owners are advised to contact their respective brand's service center to verify eligibility, available discounts, and program schedules before bringing their vehicles in for repair.

Regarding insurance claims, the Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) stated that compensation will depend on the actual damage and policy coverage. For internal combustion vehicles, flood damage is assessed across five levels, ranging from water reaching the floor carpets, seats, lower dashboard, and upper dashboard, to complete submersion. Consumers are advised to take photos of the water level and damage as evidence. However, failing to do so because of circumstances beyond their control does not automatically remove their right to claim compensation. Insurance enquiries can be directed to the OIC hotline at 1186.

For borrowers still paying vehicle installments, OCPB has discussed assistance with the Bank of Thailand, including principal repayment deferrals, interest reductions or deferrals, lower instalments, and longer repayment periods. Borrowers should contact their financial institution, as conditions and assistance periods vary by lender and loan type.

For rental vehicles, OCPB has asked the Thai Car Rental Association to waive the excess fee for flood damage and provide replacement vehicles promptly for customers with active contracts. Other types of damage will be handled under the applicable coverage terms.

Ms. Supamas urged businesses to clearly state all pricing, repair details, and service conditions. Consumers facing unfair towing or repair charges can file a complaint via the OCPB hotline 1166, the OCPB Connect app, www.ocpb.go.th, or provincial OCPB offices nationwide.