Driving a car in Turkey

Generally the legislation in Turkey is the same than everywhere else in
Europe. Everyone who chooses to pass their driving test in Turkey has to obey
to the same rules. They even have to learn how an engine works, and how this
part or that part functions. There is also an addional first aid test which is
compulsory. Any learner has to undertake a certain amount of driving lessons
to be allowed to take the practical driving test.

So much for the theory. Now about the practice

Well, as soon as the licence is in the pocket, everything which had been
taught is quickly forgotten and most male drivers behave like a 'little' Michael
Schumacher. Of course, there are always well-considered and good drivers, but
for the moment they will stay unmentioned.

As many would say that parking, driving in reverse, turning left and right is
something women are rather bad at, well let me tell you that most male
drivers are no better. Some driving skills remind us on our very first and
almost fatally driving lessons. Certainly there is a sense of insecurity about
the size and specification of the car when it comes to parking. Not to mention
the maneuvering out of a parking spot. Like in any other country wearing the
seatbelt is as compulsory as wearing a helmet when riding a motorbike or
scooter. Unfortunately hardly anybody respects that rule. And of course it is
only then cool and sexy when the long hair are waving in the wind. Besides
you will see twelve-year old youngsters testing out their new driving skills on
public roads, which is also illegal.

To be on the safe side when driving in Turkey is to drive cautiously, in defence
mode so to speak. Even when drivers see a red amber light that does not mean
that they will actually stop the car. The same effects pedestrians. When using a
zebra crossing be aware that next to the stopping bus there can be car speeding
across the crossing. REMEMBER: always walk carafully and with your eyes on the
road to make sure it is safe to cross the road. Unfortunately it has become a habit
to cross the road when you see a red light just to make sure you are not run over
by a car.

Another thing you should be aware of is that not every driver has a insurance
for their car. Although this matter is constantly check upon, it is not a given.
Most turkish drivers use their car like they are pleased so that the horn has
become the most essential tool in their cars. Therefore half of the turkish
population follows the rule: 'Beep and Speed up'. The indicator is another thing
which is widely underused although learned. It is not much used apart from
indicating the speedy maneurve of overtaking. Talking about speed, the speed
limits within and outside villages are completly disregarded.

You can forget about the much taught rules of priority at junctions. Normally,
the rulesays that at a junction the car approaching from the right has the
right of way. But here again this rule is completly disregarded. The best way
to deal with that situation is to use your horn to make your way. Nobody is
actually fighting for their right of way.

The last thing we would like to point out to you is the fact that all these 'rally'
drivers are just one of the many obstacles you have to look out for. Especially
at night there are unlit roadworks, drunk drivers, broken back lights, black-clothed
cyclists and animal running across road which can potentially be a great danger. If
you not suicidal you should find a place to stay as soon as dawn hits you and
continue your journey the following morning.