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Traffic Accidents in Türkiye for Foreigners: What to Do

11/12/2025

Traffic Accidents in Türkiye Involving Foreigners: What to Do and How to Proceed

Traffic accidents in Türkiye involving foreigners can be especially stressful, particularly when local rules, insurance procedures, and reporting requirements are unfamiliar. To avoid mistakes and protect your rights, it is crucial to understand what steps to take immediately after an accident.

For additional legal information, you may visit:
Legal Assistance for Foreigners in Türkiye

First Steps for Foreigners After a Traffic Accident in Türkiye

After an accident, it is important to act in the correct sequence.

1. Ensure Safety

  • Turn on hazard lights,

  • Wear a reflective vest,

  • If possible, move the vehicle out of traffic.

2. Call Emergency Services — 112

If anyone is injured, call medical services immediately.
When you inform the operator that foreigners are involved, English-speaking staff may be dispatched.

3. When You Must Call the Police

Calling the police is mandatory if:

  • there are injuries or fatalities,

  • parties disagree on fault,

  • one of the drivers is under the influence of alcohol,

  • a vehicle lacks compulsory Trafik Sigortası (Traffic Insurance),

  • property damage is significant.

Official Traffic Authority:
👉 https://www.trafik.gov.tr/

If there are no injuries and both parties agree on the details, you may complete the accident report using the “Kaza Tutanağı” mobile app.

Documents Foreigners Must Collect After a Traffic Accident in Türkiye

Insurance companies require evidence, so gather as much information as possible.

Take Photos Of:

  • the accident scene,

  • vehicles and license plates,

  • road signs and lane markings,

  • damage from different angles.

Record the Other Driver’s Information:

  • full name and address,

  • compulsory Traffic Insurance (Trafik Sigortası) policy number,

  • Kasko policy number,

  • phone number,

  • license plate number.

How Foreigners Should Prepare an Accident Report in Türkiye

Foreigners should know that accident reports can be completed in two ways.

1. Self-Report (if there are no injuries)

Using the Kaza Tutanağı mobile app, you can:

  • enter driver information,

  • upload photos,

  • draw a sketch of the accident,

  • sign electronically.

The report is automatically sent to the insurance company.

2. Through the Police (if there are disputes or injuries)

The police will prepare:

  • the official accident report,

  • alcohol test report,

  • witness and driver statements,

  • documents required for insurance.

Insurance Procedures in Türkiye — What Foreigners Must Know

There are two types of insurance in Türkiye:

Compulsory Traffic Insurance — Trafik Sigortası

It covers the damage caused to the other party, not your own vehicle.
Foreigners driving rental cars rely on the insurance provided by the rental company.

Full Coverage Insurance — Kasko

Kasko covers:

  • damage to your own vehicle,

  • damage even when you are at fault,

  • theft,

  • natural disasters.

What Foreigners Should Do After a Traffic Accident

  • Notify your insurance company within 5 business days,

  • Wait for the expert inspection (Eksper),

  • Receive the damage assessment report,

  • If the insurance company refuses compensation, file an objection through a lawyer.

When Foreigners Need a Lawyer After a Traffic Accident in Türkiye

Contact CR Partners if:

  • injuries are involved,

  • there is a dispute over liability,

  • you believe the police report contains errors,

  • the insurance company refuses to pay,

  • you are a tourist or unfamiliar with local procedures.

Liability for Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Leaving the scene of an accident is prohibited and may result in:

  • a substantial fine,

  • suspension of your driver’s license,

  • denial of insurance compensation,

  • administrative investigation in certain cases.

Accidents Involving Rental Cars

If the vehicle is rented:

  • notify the rental company immediately,

  • provide the accident report,

  • do not repair the vehicle on your own,

  • review the deposit and contract conditions.

Conclusion

Foreigners involved in traffic accidents in Türkiye must follow the correct legal procedures to avoid serious consequences, including fines or insurance denials. Proper documentation and timely legal assistance significantly improve the chances of a successful resolution.

CR Partners provides professional legal support for foreigners in all types of traffic accidents in Türkiye — from insurance negotiations to court representation.

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