Turkey’s ‘Tough New Traffic Law’ Temporarily Suspended

A controversial traffic safety bill that proposed record-high fines and strict penalties for dangerous driving has been temporarily withdrawn from the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) agenda. The bill, which was expected to be debated last week, will reportedly return to the floor after the completion of the budget talks.

The proposal, previously described by Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya as marking a “new era in road safety,” includes a series of severe sanctions aimed at curbing reckless behavior and protecting public safety.

Key Provisions in the Suspended Traffic Bill

According to NTV, the bill includes new enforcement measures targeting speeding, dangerous maneuvers, and violations involving emergency or public-use roads.

1. Graduated License Suspension for Speeding

One of the most notable changes is a tiered penalty system for drivers exceeding limits in sensitive zones such as schools and hospitals, where the speed limit is 30 km/h.

• 76 km/h: 30-day license suspension

• 86 km/h: 60-day suspension

• 96 km/h: 90-day suspension

The goal, according to lawmakers, is to deter reckless driving in areas where pedestrian safety is paramount.

2. Repeat Offenders Face Psychiatric Evaluation

Drivers caught speeding five or more times in a year would be required to undergo an evaluation by a psychiatrist, marking a first-of-its-kind psychological intervention in Turkish traffic enforcement.

3. “Makas” Maneuver: Heavy Penalty for Reckless Lane Cutting

Performing dangerous lane-weaving (“makas atma”) within residential areas would result in a ₺90,000 fine and 60-day license suspension — one of the heaviest penalties in the draft.

4. Wrong-Way Driving Sanctions

The fines for driving in the wrong direction would vary depending on the type of road:

• One-way streets: ₺10,000

• Divided highways: ₺20,000

• Intercity highways: ₺90,000 and 60-day license suspension

Officials say these measures aim to prevent the high-risk collisions that have been increasing in recent years.

5. Convoy and Infrastructure Obstruction Fines

Drivers who block roads during wedding or celebration convoys would face a ₺90,000 fine and 60-day license suspension.
Those obstructing traffic on bridges, tunnels, or viaducts would face even harsher consequences — a ₺180,000 fine, 120-day suspension, and temporary vehicle impoundment.

6. Failure to Yield to Emergency Vehicles

Drivers who fail to yield to ambulances or fire trucks would face a ₺46,000 fine, 30-day driving ban, and temporary license cancellation.
Repeat offenders—those caught twice within five years—would have their licenses permanently revoked.

Why the Bill Was Delayed

Although the bill enjoyed public support for its life-saving potential, parliamentary sources indicate that technical reviews and enforcement logistics need refinement before implementation. Lawmakers aim to ensure that the system for tracking violations, verifying speeds, and handling appeals operates efficiently before passing the final version.

Observers suggest that when reintroduced, the bill could undergo minor revisions but is expected to retain its core focus on deterrence and public safety.

A “New Era” in Road Safety Still Ahead

Minister Yerlikaya previously emphasized that traffic reform is among the Interior Ministry’s top priorities:

“We are determined to reduce traffic deaths and make our roads safer for every citizen. The goal is not punishment, but prevention.”