Geographic Region-Based Statistics
When discussing road safety in Turkey, we often focus on the "total number of crashes." However, when we examine the distribution of these events by region and province, it becomes clear that the road safety landscape is shaped by regional and local dynamics. The 2024 data provides significant insights based on both regional and provincial crash and fatality figures.
Regional Crash Data: The Mediterranean Ranks First
According to the 2024 regional statistics, the highest number of traffic crashes occurred in the Mediterranean Region, with 46,009 recorded incidents. Furthermore, the Mediterranean Region also recorded the highest number of fatalities resulting from traffic crashes.
The Mediterranean Region is followed in total crash counts by:
Aegean: 44,069
Istanbul: 33,636
East Marmara: 27,683
In terms of fatality data, following the Mediterranean Region, the areas with the highest death tolls are:
Aegean Region (1,061)
West Anatolia (658)
This data indicates that the Mediterranean and Aegean corridors stand out in terms of both crashes and loss of life. This is largely driven by factors such as tourism, transit passage, heavy intercity traffic, and the surge in population during the summer months.
Source: TUİK- Includes those who were injured in a traffic accident, referred to a healthcare facility, and died within 30 days due to the cause and effects of the accident.
Provincial Crash Data: Metropolises Stand Out
According to the total crash data by province for 2024, the highest number of traffic crashes occurred in the following cities:
Istanbul: 33,636
Ankara: 16,584
Izmir: 15,025
Antalya: 13,401
This ranking demonstrates that crash counts are highest in Turkey's most densely populated cities with the highest vehicle concentrations. Istanbul, in particular, stands out significantly with 33,636 crashes, both as a standalone province and as a specific region in regional data.
Provinces with the Lowest Number of Traffic Crashes
On the other hand, the provinces where the fewest traffic crashes occurred in 2024 are as follows:
Ardahan: 172
Bayburt: 187
Tunceli: 234
Hakkari: 322
While these figures might initially create the perception that "these provinces are safer," there is a critical point to consider:
When analyzing this data, the population and the number of registered vehicles in these regions must be taken into account.
Source: TUİK- Includes those who were injured in a traffic accident, referred to a healthcare facility, and died within 30 days due to the cause and effects of the accident.
How Should We Interpret the Data?
This regional and provincial distribution highlights the critical areas that must be prioritized when designing road safety policies in Turkey.
The Necessity of a Regional Approach
In regions such as the Mediterranean and the Aegean, high crash and fatality rates must be evaluated alongside tourism traffic, seasonal density, coastal roads, and intercity transportation. To reduce crash risks and enhance safety in these areas, it is essential to consider the following:
Implementing increased traffic measures during peak tourism seasons.
Improving safety standards on coastal roads.
Ensuring the strict enforcement of regulations in intercity transportation.
In regions with heavy industrial and logistical loads, such as East Marmara and Istanbul, focus should remain on factors such as freight transport, commercial vehicle density, and highway usage. Strategies to improve road safety in these regions include:
Strengthening the inspection and supervision of commercial vehicles.
Advancing road infrastructure development.
Reviewing regulations regarding truck and heavy goods vehicle (HGV) traffic.
These methods can be considered effective steps toward ensuring overall road safety.
Source: TUİK- Includes those who were injured in a traffic accident, referred to a healthcare facility, and died within 30 days due to the cause and effects of the accident.
2024 Traffic Crash Data Analysis
The 2024 regional and provincial traffic crash data provides critical safety information. These figures aim to raise public awareness by highlighting the varying levels of risk across different regions.
The Mediterranean Region: Highest Crash Count and Fatality Rate
The Mediterranean Region ranks first in total crash counts with 46,009 incidents and, unfortunately, shows the highest fatality rate. This situation underscores the urgent need to address traffic safety issues within the region.
Situation in Other Regions
The Aegean, Istanbul, and East Marmara regions follow the Mediterranean with high crash counts. It is of vital importance to implement measures aimed at reducing traffic crashes in these areas.
Provincial Crash Data
At the provincial level, Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya stand out as the cities with the highest concentration of crashes. Regarding fatality rates, Ankara, Istanbul, Konya, and Antalya draw significant attention due to their high numbers.
Provinces with Low Crash Counts
While provinces such as Ardahan, Bayburt, Tunceli, and Hakkari have lower crash counts, these values may still harbor absolute risks. Even in such provinces, there are critical safety issues that require attention.
In conclusion, this data serves as a guide for ensuring road safety and preventing future crashes. It is of great importance for local governments and the state to take these findings into account when implementing safety measures.