No, lane splitting remains illegal in Turkey under the 2023 Highway Traffic Law (Law No. 3194), with no 2026 amendments permitting it. Riders risk fines up to 1,000 TL for weaving between vehicles, as the legislation prioritizes structured lane discipline. Police enforcement targets motorcyclists filtering through traffic, citing safety risks and liability concerns.
Key Regulations for Lane Splitting in Turkey
- Highway Traffic Law (2023): Explicitly prohibits lane splitting under Article 64, classifying it as reckless maneuvering.
- Municipal Enforcement: Local traffic directorates (e.g., Istanbul Traffic Police) impose fines of 500–1,000 TL for violations, with repeat offenses escalating penalties.
- Insurance Implications: Insurers void coverage for accidents occurring during lane splitting, per 2024 amendments to the Motor Vehicles Insurance Regulation.
Motorcyclists must adhere to Article 118 of the Highway Traffic Regulation, which mandates maintaining a single lane and prohibits overtaking between vehicles. The Turkish Standards Institute (TSE) has not endorsed lane splitting protocols, reinforcing its prohibition. Recent EU-aligned safety campaigns emphasize helmet use and lane discipline, further discouraging the practice.