Attention: Those Hitting the Road for Bayram!

Occupational Health and Safety Expert Lecturer Özgür Şener, emphasizing the increased accident potential due to rising traffic density on roads during Bayram holidays, states the benefit of vehicle service maintenance for a safe journey. Şener recommends adhering to legal speed limits on the road, maintaining a 4-6 second distance from the vehicle ahead, and paying attention to pedestrian traffic in residential areas to prevent accidents. Stating that one must also be mentally prepared for driving, Şener warns that changing eating habits with Ramadan can also lead to drowsiness in traffic.   

Pay Attention to Legal Speed Limits and Distance Rule!

Üsküdar University Occupational Health and Safety Expert Lecturer Özgür Şener shared tips for safe travel for those hitting the road during the Bayram holiday.

Vehicle Service Maintenance Should Be Done Before Hitting the Road

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Expert Lecturer Özgür Şener stated that Bayram holidays are periods where the potential for traffic accidents increases due to rising traffic density on roads. He said, “Before setting off, the vehicle should undergo service maintenance to ensure it won't break down on the road. Ensure there are no cuts, cracks, or missing pieces on the sidewalls of the tires. At a reliable tire repair shop, check that the tread depths are a minimum of 3mm and that tire pressures match the values specified for the vehicle.”

If There's a Health Problem, Consult a Doctor First

Emphasizing that one must be mentally prepared for driving and not be sleepless, OHS Expert Özgür Şener said, “If there is any discomfort, one should not drive without consulting a doctor. Before starting to drive, check the road and weather conditions, and determine rest stops and alternative routes if necessary along the intended route. It is beneficial to ensure there is enough fuel in the vehicle before starting the drive.”

Legal Speed Limits Must Be Obeyed

Reminding traffic rules, Şener said, “When approaching critical areas such as connection and merge points, intersections, and traffic lights, speed should be reduced for a controlled pass. Special attention should be paid to the possibility of pedestrians and children emerging in residential area transitions. Obey legal speed limits; driving below speed limits when challenging conditions like rain, driving in the dark, narrow, winding roads occur will prevent accidents. A safe following distance must be maintained. It is necessary to leave a minimum of 4 seconds, and 6 seconds on highways and expressways, from the vehicle ahead. Observing the road ahead well and checking mirrors and surroundings every 5-8 seconds will also ensure a safe drive.”

Changing Eating Habits Can Cause Drowsiness in Traffic!

Şener concluded by drawing attention to the psychological challenges drivers might face during their journey: 

“Due to heavy traffic and prolonged waiting times, drivers can become aggressive. Therefore, it is beneficial to remain calm on the road. Drivers who are accustomed to fasting should be prepared for reactions like drowsiness due to changes in their eating habits after the Ramadan Bayram.”