Pedestrian crossingFinland
Traffic rules
Finland
1. Pedestrian crossing
A pedestrian crossing is a designated place where pedestrians may cross a road. It is commonly indicated by road markings, traffic signs, signals or a combination of these measures.
Drivers must approach with appropriate caution and give way when required by local law. Pedestrians must also observe approaching traffic and follow any pedestrian signals or instructions from authorised traffic controllers.
When must drivers give way at a pedestrian crossing in Finland?
Approach with particular care and at a speed that allows you to stop before the crossing. Give unobstructed passage to a pedestrian on the crossing or preparing to enter it. Follow any applicable traffic lights or directions from a traffic controller.
Are all pedestrian crossings controlled the same way in Finland?
No. A crossing may have traffic lights or a traffic controller; follow the applicable instructions. At a crossing without such controls, drivers must give unobstructed passage to pedestrians on it or preparing to enter it. A warning sign alone does not replace the rules for an actual crossing.
May I enter a pedestrian crossing if the road beyond it is blocked in Finland?
Wait before the crossing until there is room to clear it without obstructing pedestrians. If a vehicle or tram has stopped before the crossing, stop before passing it, unless a refuge island or an unoccupied traffic lane separates you from it. You must still give pedestrians unobstructed passage.
Must Finnish pedestrians use a nearby crossing, underpass or footbridge?
Yes. Section 16 requires using one when nearby.
How should Finnish pedestrians cross when no designated crossing facility is nearby?
Cross perpendicular to the road, beside a junction if one is nearby.
When may Finnish drivers pass a vehicle stopped before a crossing without first stopping?
A refuge island or an unoccupied traffic lane between the vehicles removes that specific stopping requirement. Other crossing duties still apply.
What if something other than a stopped vehicle obscures a Finnish crossing?
Slow down and stop before the crossing if necessary, as section 27 requires.
