No, riding in the back of an uncovered truck is illegal in Turkey under the Turkish Highway Traffic Regulation (Karayolu Trafik Yönetmeliği), Article 57/1, which prohibits transporting passengers in open cargo areas. Violations risk fines up to 1,672 TL (2026 adjusted) and driver liability for accidents. Exceptions exist for agricultural or emergency vehicles with certified safety measures.
Key Regulations for Riding in the Back of a Truck in Turkey
- Passenger Transport Ban: Article 57 explicitly forbids carrying individuals in truck beds unless vehicles meet special safety standards (e.g., enclosed cargo compartments).
- Local Enforcement: Provincial traffic directorates (İl Emniyet Müdürlükleri) and Jandarma units conduct routine checks, particularly on highways like O-5 and D-100.
- Penalties: Fines escalate for repeat offenses; drivers may face license suspension under the 2024 amendments to the Traffic Law (No. 2918).
Exceptions require prior approval from the Turkish Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, such as for military or humanitarian convoys. Municipalities may impose additional restrictions during urban transport operations. Non-compliance exposes operators to civil liability under the Turkish Civil Code (TMK) for injuries sustained by transported individuals.