Police Report 77 Accidents Last Week

In a statement issued by the Police Press Office, it was disclosed that in the period from April 15th to April 21st, there were 77 recorded traffic incidents* in North Cyprus. The report further indicated that these incidents resulted in injuries to 19 individuals and damage to 62 vehicles, Kibris Postasi reports.

The cumulative cost of damages resulting from these incidents was documented at 5,140,527  TL.

The breakdown of accidents by region stands as follows: Nicosia recorded 28 incidents; Famagusta, 13; Kyrenia, 32; Guzelyurt, 2; and Iskele, 2.

Additionally, within the timeframe spanning April 15th to April 21st, a comprehensive total of 11,366 motorists were checked nationwide by the traffic police. Out of this figure, 4,513 drivers were flagged for traffic violations and subsequently reported, leading to the start of legal proceedings against them.

Breakdown of Traffic Offences

• Speeding: 1,256
• Speeding detected by mobile devices: 829
• Reckless driving: 13
• Careless driving: 35
• Operating a vehicle without driving licence: 58
• Driving without a licence: 11
• Driving under the influence of alcohol: 107
• Using a mobile phone while driving: 75
• Driving without wearing a seatbelt: 34
• Failure to comply with traffic signs and signals: 50
• Disregarding traffic lights: 7
• Operating an uninspected vehicle: 23
• Operating a vehicle without insurance or outside coverage: 25
• Unauthorised passenger transportation (taxi): 7
• Unauthorised transportation of goods: 8
• Riding a motorcycle without wearing a helmet: 2
• Driving without proper lighting or violating lighting regulations: 6
• Other traffic offences: 2,796

In addition, the statement noted that a total of 362 vehicles were impounded, and 7 drivers were arrested during this period.

Kibris Postasi

*Following the high death toll caused by traffic accidents this year, the government has formed a special road safety commission and is bringing in harsher penalties for causing death by reckless driving.

In January 2024, Yeniduzen reported that the President of the Road Traffic Accident Prevention Association Dr. Zeki Avcı, gave a damning indictment on poor safety standards in driving, the state of the roads and the lack of government action to improve matters.

In an interview with Avcı, who was a founder of the Association, he said that 47 people had died in traffic accidents in 2023 and predicted that the number of fatalities this year would increase.

Avcı also said that the standard of driving instruction was well below that of the EU. [Ed.]