🛣️ Traffic rules and safety — speeds, roundabouts and wildlife

Finnish roads are all about politeness and predictability. By understanding seasonal limits, the logic of roundabouts and ‘deer’ areas, you will feel equally confident in the centre and on the northern route.

🚗 What is important for visitors to know?

The first thing any driver notices in Finland is order. Here, low beams are always on, regardless of the time of day. All passengers must wear seat belts. Mobile phones must be used in hands-free mode, otherwise the fines will be substantial.

Pedestrian crossings are strictly observed: drivers must stop even if a person is only approaching the crossing. Road markings and signs in Finland are very logical — follow them and you won't get lost.

🚦 Speed limits and cameras: where should you be more careful?

Please bear in mind that speed limits can vary a little depending on the time of year, peaking in summer and dipping in winter. To keep everyone safe and sound, the speed limit is reduced to 30–40 km/h near schools, hospitals and residential areas.

Don't worry, though, because fixed cameras are marked in advance and you can see them on signs and on the map. We've placed these cameras in places where we know drivers will be relaxed — on straight sections, near intersections and before populated areas.

To avoid any fines, it's best to use cruise control — in Finland, it really saves you.

🔁 Roundabouts: how to navigate them correctly?

Don't worry – Finnish roundabouts are really straightforward! Most of the time, priority is given to those of you already driving around the circle. Before you go in, just make sure you choose the right lane, turn on your indicator before you go, and then turn it off when you're done.

When you're in a multi-lane roundabout, it's really important to follow the markings, as they show you the right way to go. We Finns aren't big fans of chaotic lane changes, so it's a good idea to plan your trajectory in advance.

🚶‍♂️ Pedestrians, bicycles🚴‍♀️, scooters🛴 — who has the right of way?

The golden rule of Finnish roads is that protected road users have priority, which is really thoughtful!

And of course, pedestrians at crossings definitely have the right of way. The cycling infrastructure here is really great: there are special paths just for cyclists, separate from the pavements and roads. And if there aren't any dedicated cycle paths, cyclists just follow the rules of the road, which is really helpful.

You can ride your electric scooter on the bike path or sidewalk, but you can't go too fast. In some areas, there are 'quiet zones' where scooters are required to slow down or ride manually, so please be sure to look out for those.

🦌 Deer and moose: how to reduce the risk of an encounter?

In the northern regions, it's important to remember that deer are just as much a part of the traffic as cars are. They are especially active at dusk and early in the morning, so you might see them if you go out at those times. If you see a moose sign, then please, please slow down!

If you're ever in an accident, please remember to turn on your hazard lights, put up a warning sign, move to a safe distance and call 112. Animals can sometimes behave in a way we don't expect, so it's best to keep your distance.

🚨 Traffic accident, what to do?

And if there is an accident, safety is the most important thing. Hey, just a thought: why not stop, turn on your hazard lights, put on a reflective vest and set up a warning sign? Then take some photos of the scene, the damage and the position of the vehicles.

Then, it's just a quick exchange of contact details and insurance information. If someone gets hurt, there's a disagreement or some serious damage, please call 112 and the police.

🍺 Alcohol and checks — strict rules

I totally get it, Finland has one of the strictest approaches to drink driving. The minimum threshold is low, and regular checks are carried out on motorways, in cities and near nightclubs.

We totally get it, even the smallest mistakes can lead to some pretty frustrating consequences. For example, you might have to pay a fine, and your insurance company might not cover you.

👶 Child seats and seat belts

It's so important to make sure your little ones are riding in a seat that's just right for their age and weight. If your little one has outgrown their car seat but isn't quite ready to use a regular seat belt yet, don't worry! A booster seat is totally fine.

It's always a good idea to double-check the fastenings, even if you've got an ISOFIX system. And even with that, it's important to make sure the locks are locked until you hear that satisfying click!

🚧 Unusual signs — do you need to learn them?

Oh yes! Here in Finland, we've got our own unique way of doing things:

— warning about moose;

— warning about snow ploughs;

— tram priority;

— seasonal speed limits;

— signs for narrow bridges and dirt roads.

They might be few and far between, but they're so important! Hey, why not try spending 10 minutes learning them? You'll be amazed at how much more confident you'll feel!

🌲 Rural crossroads and dirt roads

In the countryside, you might not see any road markings at all. It's important to remember that crossroads are determined by traffic logic, and that visibility is often limited by trees, bends in the road or the terrain.

In these areas, it's always a good idea to switch on your low beams, even during the day, slow down before you get to those tricky fork in the road spots, and let others know you're there by sounding your horn when visibility is low. Dirt roads can be soft and slippery in spring and summer after rain, so please be careful and adjust your speed accordingly.

The rules here are there to help you, not to hinder you. I totally understand, and I completely agree with you that you will drive 'Finnish style'. You're going to be amazing, because you'll be patient and you'll be respectful towards signs and people. Then, as you take to the road, you'll find that cameras and roundabouts become just another part of the journey, and driving will be a joy.