Finland - 5 driving facts you should know!
At Psngr we recently updated our mileage rates for Finland (2018 it is €0.42 per km tax-free). As part of this update we decided to dive a little deeper and find out the driving habits of the Finn's.
Here are a few facts that you may not be aware of...
Headlights compulsory at all times
Use of headlights is compulsory in Finland. Whenever a vehicle is driven, its dipped headlights or day-time running lights must be on, even during daytime and summer.
Unnecessary engine idling is prohibited
In Finland, excessive engine idling is prohibited. If the vehicle is stationary for reasons other than an accident, the engine may not be run for longer than two minutes. However, if the air temperature is below -15°C, the engine may be run for a maximum of four minutes before continuing with your journey.
Winter tyres compulsory
In Finland all cars, vans and their trailers equipped with brakes must use winter tyres in December, January and February. At other times, the use of winter tyres is optional. If you own a forign vehicle and plan to drive in Finland during these months you will also require the use of winter tyres.
Helmets for all vehicles are compulsory
Motorcycle, snowmobile, moped and even bicycle riders and any passenger must use an approved type of helmet when riding, unless prevented from doing so by an illness. This rule has also been introduced in Australia in recent years.
Don't break the speed limit
In 2015 a story hit the headlines about a Finnish business man who was caught doing 65km in a 50km zone. In the UK or North America you may expect a fine of a couple hundred pounds/dollars, possibly a point or two deducted from your license, not in Finland! If you break the speed limit in Finland expect a heavy, heavy fine.
The Finn's calculate speeding offenses based on your yearly earnings. They calculate your daily wage, divide it by two and then decide how many days you should be finned. In this case the gentleman in question was fined an eye watering €54,000!
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