Driving in Turkey can be hazardous, especially for foreigners who don’t know the local “rules of the road.” Of the many accidents involving Americans in recent years, most could have been avoided had the Americans known more about local driving customs. Defensive driving and remaining alert at all times are essential. Some local driving practices include: waiting till well after dark to turn on headlights; trucks and buses taking the right-of-way, whether entitled to it or not, without signaling; passing on the right and cutting in front of other vehicles; stopping or turning unexpectedly for no apparent reason; trucks parking at night without lights on the highway instead of on the side of the road; driving in the middle of the road and yielding to no one; cars backing up on exit ramps and main highways; attempting to pass while another car is passing; pedestrians completely oblivious to oncoming traffic. Watch for temporary checkpoints or traffic stops at night. Always have your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, driver’s license and passport with you in the vehicle. If involved in an accident, a breathalyzer or blood test is almost always mandatory.
