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Traffic etiquette raises concerns as Finnish officials highlight dangers of yielding in Helsinki

Saturday 5th 2024 on 12:44 in  
Iceland

Concerns have been raised regarding traffic etiquette, particularly the practice of yielding to vehicles merging from an on-ramp onto a main road. According to reports from Finnish media, it is both illegal and highly dangerous for drivers on the main road to yield to merging traffic. This raises the question of whether the same holds true for traffic regulations in Iceland.

Finnish traffic guidelines specify that vehicles on the main road should not switch to the left lane to allow merging traffic to enter, as this can lead to hazardous situations. In contrast, Icelandic traffic laws indicate that drivers on an on-ramp should assess their speed and merge safely into the main road without causing danger or discomfort.

Arni Fridleifsson, the head of the traffic department at the Capital Region Police, disagrees with the Finnish perspective, asserting that yielding can facilitate smoother traffic flow rather than create risk. He notes that there have not been many accidents attributed to this practice, though unfortunate incidents do occur.

Driving instructors emphasize the importance of being aware of blind spots and the necessity of checking mirrors before changing lanes, but bear in mind that the primary responsibility lies with the driver already on the road.

A Finnish report lists several dangers associated with yielding, such as increased risk when merging into fast-moving traffic or situations where the merging lane may not provide enough space for vehicles to safely enter the main road. Solutions proposed include maintaining a safe distance and showing consideration and awareness while driving.

Source 
(via ruv.is)