DHAKA: A bus crash in eastern Thailand has killed at least 15 people, including 13 students, Thai authorities say.

The bus was travelling to the seaside town of Pattaya, about 150km (90 miles) south-east of Bangkok, when it crashed into a truck, police said.

Thirteen students and two teachers died, while more than 30 were injured, they added.

Traffic accidents are common in Thailand, with poor safety standards and busy roads thought to be a factor, BBC reported.

The crash occurred early on Friday, police said. The students were travelling from the north-eastern city Ratchasima on a field trip to Pattaya.

Police are now investigating the crash.

Police Lt Col Anukarn Thammavijarn said: "The bus`s brakes may have failed or the driver might have fallen asleep."

The World Health Organisation says that Thailand has a "much higher" rate of deaths from traffic accidents than most other countries in South East Asia.

In December, 29 people died after a bus travelling through the northern province of Phetchabun plunged off Khun Pha Muang bridge.

BDST: 1036 HRS, FEB 28, 2014