Alcohol Limit and Penal Sanctions for Drinking and Driving: How Conscious Are You?
Alcohol can have serious effects on drivers, and this endangers traffic safety. The laws regarding drinking and driving in Turkey include certain limits and penalties in order to protect public health. In this article, you will find information about alcohol limits and penal sanctions for drinking and driving.
1. Alcohol Limits
The legal limits determined for drinking and driving in Turkey are important for drivers to control their alcohol consumption. Here are these limits:
Class B Driver’s License Holders:
0.50 promil: Alcohol levels above this level result in a ban on drinking and driving.
Professional Drivers (taxi, bus, truck, etc.):
0.00 promil: Zero tolerance is applied.
New Drivers (new drivers):
0.00 promil: Zero tolerance is also applied for these drivers.
Example: A Class B driver’s license holder with an alcohol level of 0.60 promil will be subject to penal procedures.
2. Penalty Sanctions
Drivers who exceed the alcohol limit face serious penalties. In Turkey, these sanctions vary according to the alcohol level:
2.1. Penalty Amounts
0.50 – 0.79 per mille:
A fine: 1,200 TL
License revocation period: 6 months
0.80 – 1.59 per mille:
A fine: 2,500 TL
License revocation period: 1 year
1.60 per mille and above:
A fine: 5,000 TL
License revocation period: 2 years
Example: A driver caught with an alcohol level of 0.75 per mille will pay a fine of 1,200 TL and will have their license revoked for 6 months.
3. Effects of Drinking and Driving
The effects of alcohol on drivers are quite serious. Here are some effects:
Longer Reaction Time: Alcohol can cause accidents by reducing motor skills and attention levels.
Decreased Decision-Making Ability: Alcohol negatively affects the ability to make good decisions.
Legal Liabilities: Drivers who have an accident while driving under the influence of alcohol may face compensation lawsuits and criminal law processes.
4. Alcohol Test Applications
The police can apply alcohol tests to drivers in suspicious situations in traffic. These tests are usually done in two ways:
4.1. Breath Test
Application: Drivers exhale through a device belonging to the police officer.
Result: The device shows the driver’s alcohol level instantly.
4.2. Blood Test
Application: A blood test is performed for drivers whose breath test is positive.
Result: The results of the blood test can be used as evidence in the legal process.
5. Recommendations for Conscious Driving
The following recommendations should be taken into consideration to reduce the risks of driving under the influence of alcohol:
Avoid Alcohol Consumption: Avoid drinking alcohol if you are going to drive.
Use Alternative Transportation Methods: If you have been drinking, use alternative methods such as taxis or public transportation.
Responsible Friendship: Warn your friends to avoid drinking and driving in a fun environment.
6.
Driving under the influence of alcohol poses serious dangers and legal penalties. Knowing the legal alcohol limits and not exceeding these limits is extremely important to protect yourself and other road users. By being a conscious driver, you can both avoid breaking the law and protect your loved ones.
