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11. Crossing animals
A crossing animals sign is a warning sign indicating that animals may unexpectedly enter or cross the road. These can be wild animals (e.g. deer) or domestic animals (e.g. cows, sheep), depending on the region.
- How to Avoid Hitting Wildlife:
- Slow down in rural, wooded, or signed wildlife zones.
- Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk—times when animals are most active.
- Watch for movement along road edges.
- Use high beams when safe at night for better visibility.
- If you see one animal, expect more—they often travel in groups.
- Don’t swerve suddenly—brake firmly and stay in control.
- What to Do If You Hit an Animal:
- Pull over safely and check for damage
- Don’t approach large injured animals—they can be dangerous
- Report it to local authorities or animal control if the animal is large or a road hazard.
- If it’s a domestic pet, try to contact the owner or notify animal services.
© Wikimedia.org/Okansoyluturk, CC BY-SA
12. Double curve
A double curve is a warning sign that tells drivers the road ahead has two back-to-back curves—first one way, then the other. It’s meant to prepare you to slow down and stay alert, as the road won’t be straight for a short distance. Double curves can be tighter than they appear, and the second curve can surprise you if you're going too fast—always reduce speed when you see the sign.
- There are two sharp bends ahead.
- The first curve may go left or right, depending on the sign.
- The second curve comes immediately after the first.
- Usually found in hilly, rural, or winding roads.
- How to Drive Through a Double Curve:
- Slow down before entering the first curve.
- Steer smoothly through both turns.
- Stay centered in your lane.
- Avoid sudden braking or turning between the curves.
Warning for a temporary double curve first to the right then left. (Turkey) © Wikimedia.org/Vikiçizer, CC BY-SA
13. Wrong-way driving
Wrong-way driving is when a vehicle travels in the opposite direction of traffic, usually on one-way roads, highways, or exit ramps. It's extremely dangerous and often leads to head-on collisions, which are among the most severe and deadly types of crashes. Wrong-way driving is extremely dangerous and often caused by confusion, distraction, or impairment. The best prevention is staying alert and following road signs carefully.
- Common Causes of Wrong-Way Driving:
- Driver confusion, especially at night or in poor visibility.
- Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs).
- Missing or misunderstood road signs.
- Elderly or inexperienced drivers.
- Distracted driving.
- Entering an exit ramp or turning the wrong way onto a one-way street.
- How to Avoid Wrong-Way Driving:
- Always obey road signs, especially “One Way,” “Do Not Enter,” and arrows.
- Be extra alert in unfamiliar areas, at night, or in low visibility.
- Avoid distractions and impairment.
- Use GPS with voice navigation if unsure of directions.
© Wikimedia.org/Btian P. Dorsam, CC BY-SA
14. Radar speed sign
A radar speed sign indicates that vehicle speed is being monitored by radar, typically by law enforcement or automated systems, to enforce speed limits. It warns drivers that their speed may be measured and recorded, and that speeding can result in penalties such as fines.
- You must respect the speed limit strictly, your speed may be actively monitored.
- Enforcement may be continuous or at specific points
- Radar control can be fixed or mobile.
© Wikimedia.org/CeeGee, CC BY-SA
15. Traffic lights
Traffic lights are signaling devices used to control the flow of traffic at intersections, pedestrian crossings, and other points on the road. They operate using a universal color system: red means stop, yellow (amber) signals that the light is about to change and warns drivers to prepare to stop, and green allows traffic to proceed when safe. By providing clear and timed instructions, traffic lights help prevent collisions, ensure smoother traffic flow, and create safer conditions for both drivers and pedestrians.
- Standard Traffic Light Colors:
- Red - Stop – Do not enter the intersection.
- Yellow - Get ready to stop, Light is about to turn red.
- Green - Go – Proceed if the way is clear.
- Pedestrian Traffic Lights:
- Red person = Don’t cross.
- Green person = Safe to cross.
- Some also beep or count down for accessibility.
- Arrow Traffic Lights:
- Show specific directions (e.g., green arrow for turning left).
- Help manage turning traffic separately from straight-moving cars.
© Wikimedia.org/Perencal, CC BY-SA
16. No stopping
A no stopping sign indicates that stopping is completely prohibited in the indicated area, meaning you are not allowed to stop your vehicle at all, even for a short time. This includes stopping to pick up or drop off passengers, load or unload goods, or wait. The only exception is when stopping is unavoidable due to traffic conditions (e.g. traffic jam, red light).
- No stopping under any circumstances (except forced stops).
- You must keep moving, even a brief stop is not allowed.
- Common Situations: Busy urban roads, Near intersections or crossings, Bus lanes or emergency routes.
17. Road surface
A road surface (also called pavement) is the top layer of a road that vehicles and pedestrians travel on. It is designed to provide a smooth, durable, and safe surface for transportation.
- Causes of Uneven Surfaces:
- Roadwork or resurfacing in progress.
- Potholes, cracks, or patchwork repairs.
- Sunken manholes or drains.
- Frost heave (caused by freezing and thawing).
- Tree roots pushing through pavement.
- Erosion or shifting ground.
- How It Affects Driving:
- Reduces vehicle stability.
- Can cause bouncing or jolting.
- May damage tires, suspension, or alignment.
- Can make steering or braking more difficult.
© Wikimedia.org/Satirdan kahraman, CC0
18. License plate
A license plate (also called a number plate or registration plate) is a metal or plastic plate attached to a vehicle that displays a unique identification number issued by a government authority. It serves as the vehicle’s official ID for legal and administrative purposes.
- Identifies the vehicle for law enforcement, tolls, and parking systems.
- Links the vehicle to its owner and registration records.
- Helps in tracking stolen vehicles or investigating traffic violations.
- Usually mounted on the front and rear of the vehicle (rear only in some places).
- Every vehicle must have a visible, valid plate when on public roads.
- Driving without a plate or with a fake/expired one can lead to fines or penalties.
- Plates must be kept clean, readable, and properly attached.
License plate of Turkey. © Wikimedia.org/E4024, CC BY-SA
19. Dangers
Dangers related to vehicles can refer to a wide range of risks and hazards that can affect drivers, passengers, pedestrians, or other road users. Understanding these dangers is key to staying safe on the road. Dangers on the road are real—but most are preventable. With smart choices, safe habits, and proper maintenance, you can avoid most hazards and protect yourself and others.
- Speeding - Reduces reaction time, increases stopping distance and crash severity.
- Distracted Driving - Texting, eating, or adjusting controls while driving.
- Driving Under the Influence - Alcohol or drugs impair judgment and reaction time.
- Fatigue - Slower reflexes and risk of falling asleep at the wheel.
- Bad Weather - Rain, snow, fog, and ice can reduce visibility and traction.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance - Worn brakes, bald tires, or low fluids can lead to failures.
- Reckless Driving - Tailgating, aggressive lane changes, and ignoring signs.
- Not Wearing a Seatbelt - Seatbelts save lives.
Warning for a trap. (Ilgaz Mountains, Turkey) © Wikimedia.org/Vikiçizer, CC BY-SA
20. Bus
A bus is a large vehicle used to carry multiple passengers, usually on a fixed route. It’s part of public or private transportation, helping people get from one place to another.
- Do not overtake a bus when it's stopped for passengers, especially a school bus.
- Watch for people crossing in front of or behind the bus.
- Yield to buses re-entering traffic in many cities — it’s the law!
- Types of Buses:
- City Bus – Picks up and drops off passengers at bus stops in cities.
- School Bus – Transports students to and from school.
- Tour/Coach Bus – For long-distance or sightseeing trips.
- Shuttle Bus – Moves people between places like airports, hotels, campuses, etc...
A bus in Turkey. © Wikimedia.org/CeeGee, CC BY-SA
Traffic rules