In Turkey, the number of people driving cars increases daily, especially in major cities. The rapid rise in the number of vehicles added to traffic each day in large urban centers leads to more driving errors and fatal accidents. As a social state, authorities introduce new laws to reduce driver mistakes and the accidents that result from them. These regulations aim to prevent drivers from committing traffic violations. Traffic laws are generally enforced through fines; in areas without traffic police, violations detected by surveillance cameras are mailed to the vehicle owner’s address. A recent system grants drivers 100 points when they begin driving, and each traffic violation or neglect of traffic signs reduces that score. Traffic signs are vital for road safety. If a driver’s points are reduced to zero or depleted entirely, their driver’s license is confiscated and they must return to driving school to obtain a new license.
The General Directorate of Security has made obtaining a driver’s license more difficult and staged to reduce increasing accident rates and prevent future crashes. Previously, driving schools issued licenses more easily to attract more candidates. Today, traffic signs and road rules are taught in greater detail at driving schools because traffic signs are among the most important topics. Under the new regulations, the licensing process is tougher: candidates must enroll in a driving course, pass a written test, successfully complete a month of behind-the-wheel lessons, and then they become eligible for a license. After completing the driving course, candidates must submit a set of documents to the school to receive the license.
Traffic signs help drivers navigate the roads safely. Required documents include a national ID card, passport, or—for lawyers—their bar identification; a driver’s file obtained from the drivers’ chamber; a medical report for drivers issued free at public health institutions or for a fee at private health centers; two biometric 5×6 photos with a white background; and a document confirming blood type available free from state hospitals or for a fee from private providers. In addition to these documents, several fees must be paid: the driver’s license duty, the cost of the special paper required for the license, and the driver’s license fee. These fees can be paid at participating banks or the nearest tax office, and the payment receipts must be submitted to the driving school. Once the school receives the documents, the process typically completes in one to two months, and the candidate can receive the driver’s license after that period.
Traffic signs are placed on roads to assist both new drivers and experienced motorists. They help novice drivers gain experience and remind all road users of traffic rules; therefore, signs are present on urban and rural roads. For experienced drivers, the General Directorate of Security maintains traffic signage to reinforce the rules of the road.
Traffic signs simplify several important rules that drivers must follow. For example, when turning right, drivers must yield to pedestrians—this rule is indicated by road signs. One of the most commonly neglected rules is that drivers should slow down or stop when approaching a pedestrian crossing during a right turn. If a driver turns right while a pedestrian is crossing, the pedestrian has priority. Where traffic lights are absent, even if the right-turn signal is green, the priority belongs to pedestrians crossing the road. Drivers should reduce speed when approaching any pedestrian crossing; such crossings act as a visual cue where traffic lights are not present and help enforce slower speeds.
Maintaining a safe following distance between vehicles is essential to prevent collisions. One-way streets are clearly marked with signs; on such roads, drivers must observe and follow the posted signage. When entering a narrow street or neighborhood where oncoming vehicles are unlikely, drivers should still be cautious—an unexpected vehicle may appear at any moment. Unnecessary use of the horn disturbs both the targeted driver and the surrounding community; horns should be used only when appropriate. Excessive speed is another critical hazard—driving fast in urban areas where speed should be controlled can lead to fatal outcomes. Traffic signs shown on the road provide clear guidance and warnings to help prevent such dangers.
