Let's Make a Difference This Year

Happy New Year: Let's Make a Difference This Year and Stay Alive on the Roads!

As we open the door to 2026, we are all filled with hope. We dream of new goals, fresh starts, and happy moments with our loved ones. The warmth of New Year's tables and the excitement of New Year's wishes are priceless. However, amidst these joyous celebrations, there is a bitter reality we must face as a country: road safety. Every year, we lose thousands of our citizens on the roads and witness tens of thousands being injured. This is not just a statistical data point; it means broken families, economic losses, and a social trauma.

The Table is Getting Heavier: What Do the Numbers Say?

Unfortunately, the data clearly reveals the severity of the situation and shows that the trend is not improving. The numbers cry out that we must be more careful:

• In Turkey, a total of 1,232,957 road crashes occurred in 2022.
• In these 2022 crashes, 5,229 people lost their lives, while 288,696 people were injured.
• The situation worsened the following year; in 2023, the total number of crashes rose to 1,314,136.
• In these 2023 crashes, the number of fatalities increased to 6,548, and the number of injured people rose to 350,855.

Let's Make a Promise to Ourselves for 2026: 5 Basic Action Plans

The most important decision we make this New Year will perhaps be the decision to stay alive. Our slogan is clear: "LET'S MAKE A DIFFERENCE THIS YEAR".

To reach our loved ones safely and protect the lives of others, here is our 5-point vital contract:

1. Safe Speed Management: Speed limits are not suggestions; they are life boundaries. We will adjust our speed according to the road, weather, and rules. Remember, being a few minutes late is better than never arriving at all.
2. Seat Belts: A non-negotiable rule. Regardless of whether it's the front or back seat, everyone must wear their seat belt before the vehicle moves. The belt connects you to life.
3. No Drowsy or Fatigued Driving: Fatigue is as dangerous as alcohol. Getting behind the wheel when your eyes are closing is a critical risk. We will take necessary breaks to rest.
4. Compliance with Signs: Intersections, traffic lights, and "stop" signs are the constitution of traffic. We will strictly comply with all lighted and unlighted signs.
5. No Distractions While Driving: Especially mobile phones. That message or call while at the wheel is not more valuable than your life. We will give our full attention only to the road.

The best gift this New Year is to be safely with our loved ones. Let's make a difference this year, follow the rules, and make 2026 a year where road crashes finally decrease.