725 Kilometers of New Rumble Strips Implemented to Prevent Traffic Accidents

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Uraloğlu, stated that this year a total of 725 kilometers of rumble strips will be implemented with the goal of preventing run-off-road traffic accidents. Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu of Transportation and Infrastructure provided an explanation regarding the nationwide efforts conducted by the General Directorate of Highways (KGM) to ensure traffic safety. Minister Uraloğlu noted that through the Intelligent Transportation Systems Centers within the KGM and weather sensors, variable message signs, and cameras placed at certain points, all data is gathered to inform road users instantly. They detect the impacts of weather conditions and potential accidents through meteorological stations, cameras, and incident detection applications. “Through signaling systems, variable message signs, radio broadcasts, and mobile information applications, we provide real-time information on road conditions to all drivers. Last year, we made 810 intersections operational in a traffic warning signal management system. This year, an additional 120 intersections will be transformed into traffic warning intersections. While enhancing road safety through intelligent transportation systems, we aim to prevent unnecessary time and financial losses,” he said. Minister Uraloğlu described the conversion of fixed-time signaling systems into traffic warning signal management systems through the Traffic Warning Signaling System, stating that a total of 279 intersections, including 44 renovations and 235 new installations, underwent work last year. “Through the initiative, a total of 103 intersections were converted to traffic adaptive signal management system. This year, 70 intersections are to be transformed into traffic adaptive signal management systems, with plans to install 1,200 synchronized IUGC (Flashing) for foggy areas that can be accessed and managed remotely. Among our objectives is also to install 17 variable message signs and 10 meteorological information stations in various regions,” he added. Stating that the rumble strip application aims to prevent drivers from veering off the road due to distraction, drowsiness, or inattention, Minister Uraloğlu said, “When vehicle tires go over the rumble strips, the vibration and noise alert the driver, providing them the chance to direct the vehicle back to the correct lane. This practice is an effective measure in reducing run-off-road accidents. It also warns drivers to be cautious as they approach unexpected road and traffic conditions. Rumble strips become a significant support element in enhancing driving safety, particularly during night drives and limited visibility weather conditions. Through these strips that alert drivers with vibrations, we aim to prevent veering off the road caused by distraction,” he emphasized. Minister Uraloğlu stated that the rumble strip application has been increasingly implemented on divided highways within the scope of the General Directorate of Highways’ responsibility. “We continue this practice to reduce accidents that occur especially on the shoulder and roadside. Rumble strip applications have been performed on a total of 6,126 kilometers since 2016. By 2025, we plan to implement rumble strips on a stretch of 725 kilometers.”