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Road Safety in Turkey

The unique and magnificent landscape of Turkey is waiting to be explored by vacationers who are ready to hit the road!

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Visitors who are dreaming of an extraordinary vacation by making use of the advanced highway network in Turkey should get informed about certain rules and regulations for their own convenience. The unique and magnificent landscape of Turkey is waiting to be explored by vacationers who are ready to hit the road!
 

Road Safety in Turkey: Essential Tips

 

Car Rental

 
Car rental companies positioned in close proximity to the airport and terminal exit gates as well as in numerous city centers and holiday resorts will provide you with the most appropriate vehicle for a pleasant car trip.
 

Traffic Lanes

 
Turkey drives on the right-hand side of the road, as in many other countries of the world. Drivers who check the mirrors as frequently as possible will automatically improve their safety.
 

Seat Belt and Child Safety Seat

 
Drivers and passengers are legally required to fasten their seat belt as soon as getting into the car and to wear their belt until arriving at their destination. Likewise, children under the age of 7 are legally required to be seated in child safety seats for their own safety.
 

Drink Driving

 
The legal alcohol limit for drivers is limited to 0.5 promilles since drink driving is prohibited in Turkey. Drivers who are convicted of driving while over the legal alcohol limit run the risk of having to pay a fine and suspension of driver’s license for six months.

Mobile (Cell) Phones

 
Drivers are not allowed to use mobile phones while driving for their own security and that of their passengers. Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited by law.
 

Travelling to destinations away from tourist centers

 
Turkey is like a riddle to be solved as it hides numerous interesting spots and towns in the interior regions waiting to be explored. It is advisable to make use of a GPS device and road map and to keep an eye on the road signs at all times. For added safety in Turkey, travelers should inform someone of their route.
 

Tolls

 
Some of the major highways of Turkey are toll highways, that can be used in return for a small fee collected at automated HGS (fast pass system) and OGS (automatic pass system) stations, located at the entrance and exit of toll highways. Tourists intending to rent a vehicle may bring up the matter and ask the car rental agency for their assistance, contributing to overall safety in Turkey while driving.
 

Emergency Call

 
Drivers can dial the following numbers in case of an emergency situation: 154 Traffic or 156 Gendarmerie.

 

Common Road Hazards in Turkey and How to Avoid Them


Driving in Turkey is an exciting experience but also a risky one. Following are some common driving hazards and how to avoid them.

 

1) Heavy Traffic and Risky Driving

 

Turkish drivers can bs assertive, and highway in large cities such as Istanbul and Ankara is chaotic. Stay alert, defensive driving is advisable, and a frequent-used check via rearview mirrors is prudent. Allow some defense gap for the lead vehicle.

 

2) Rural Road Conditions

 

While highways are nicely maintained, roads in rural roads can be potholes, uneven, and poorly lit. Drive cautiously, slow down when on unfamiliar roads, and never drive at night on rural roads.

 

3) Weather Hazard

 

Heavy snowfalls during winter seasons in eastern Turkey, and sudden rain showers occur along the coastline, making the roads slippery. Check weather conditions before driving over long distances. While driving on snowy areas in winter season, use snow tires.


Safety in Turkey

 

Turkey is relatively safe for tourists, with millions visiting every year without incident. Major tourist destinations such as Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, and Ephesus are safe and hospitable. As in any country, however, paying attention to your environment and being cautious will increase your security. Most Critical Safety Tips for Tourists:

 

  • Be careful in tourist areas
  • Use licensed transportation
  • Respect local customs and laws
  • Be cautious in rural areas
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FAQS

 

Q1. Are the roads safe in Turkey?

 

Yes, Turkey’s main roads and highways are well-maintained and safe. However, rural roads can be narrow with limited lighting, so extra caution is needed, especially at night.

 

Q2. What do I need to know about driving in Turkey?

 

Turkey drives on the right side, and seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on highways. Some roads have tolls, and traffic in major cities can be hectic.

 

Q3. Is it easy for foreigners to drive in Turkey?

 

Foreigners can drive with an international permit or a valid national license for up to six months. Road signs follow international standards, but local driving habits, like sudden lane changes, may take time to adjust to.

 

Q4. What should tourists know about road safety in Turkey?

 

Road safety in Turkey is good on highways but can be unpredictable in rural areas. Avoid driving at night, follow speed limits, and never use a phone while driving. Keep emergency numbers handy: 154 for Traffic Police and 156 for the Gendarmerie.


 

Stay safe on your Turkey tour with essential road safety tips and driving rules!