Confused.com Guide to Driving in Finland
- Guides
- Published: 01 Oct 2008 in Motoring and Car Insurance
Hit the Road
Remote and comparatively unexplored, Finland is a fascinating land of lakes and forests – a dream destination for the adventurous motorist.
Although it’s possible to drive for hours without seeing any sign of local police, you should pay attention to speed limits and drink-drive laws. Fines are issued on the spot and will depend on your income – there is no upper limit. The blood-alcohol limit is 50mg and a reading of 120mg can land you in jail.
Star Drive
The coast road from Helsinki to Turku along the old Swedish King’s Road is spectacular. From Turku you can head out to the remote island of Aland using a series of small ferries.
Laws of the Land
- All car passengers must wear seatbelts if fitted
- A child under 3 years of age or less than 1.5m tall travelling in a vehicle must be seated in a child seat or child restraint. If no child seat/restraint available, passengers 3 years and older must travel in the rear of the vehicle using a seat belt or other safety device fixed to the seat
- If you park after dark in a poorly-lit street you must leave on your parking lights
- Where the speed limit is 60kmh or less, buses have priority when pulling out of a stop
- Trams always have priority
- Motorcyclists must dip their headlights during the day and wear crash helmets (including passenger)
| Standard Speed Limits |
| Urban Areas |
50kmh |
| Outside Urban Areas |
80kmh or 100kmh (dependent on road quality) |
| Motorways |
120kmh |
Please note that winter speed restrictions will apply.
Local Knowledge
You must park in the direction of the traffic and at least 5m from junctions and pedestrian crossings. Illegal parkers can pay up to €170 to be released.
| Did You Know...? |
| If you hit an elk or a deer in Finland you must report it to the police. |
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