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    Is jaywalking illegal in Finland?

    Crossing rules for pedestrians and what happens if you break them.

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    Short answer

    Yes, pedestrians must follow the rules of the road and obey traffic signals. Liikenneturva tells pedestrians to cross only at pedestrian crossings, overpasses or underpasses when one is nearby and to wait for the green light at traffic lights. The traffic penalty fee for a pedestrian's traffic rule violation is 20 euros.

    Safety, Sustainable Tourism and Accessibility

    Why

    1. Liikenneturva says pedestrians have the responsibility to follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
    2. Liikenneturva's guide for visitors says to cross only at designated areas and not to jaywalk.
    3. Kaleva reports that the traffic penalty fee for a pedestrian is 20 euros, compared with usually 100 euros for a motorist.

    Details

    Drivers must give way to pedestrians on zebra crossings, but always check that cars have stopped before you step onto the road, especially in winter when braking distances are longer.

    Tip

    Watch for cyclists too. Many Finnish streets have bike lanes right next to the pavement.

    What may differ

    If there is no pedestrian crossing nearby, you may cross elsewhere, but you must not obstruct traffic.

    Common misconception

    Pedestrians can never be fined in Finland.

    What actually happens

    Pedestrians can receive a 20 euro traffic penalty fee for breaking traffic rules.

    People also ask

    • Do cars stop at zebra crossings in Finland?
    • Can you cross on red in Helsinki?
    • What are the pedestrian rules in Finland?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Traffic rules can change, so check Liikenneturva and the Finnish police before you travel.

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