Finnish police clarify ten common speeding myths

Finnish police tightened speeding enforcement last summer, leading to an 82 percent rise in traffic fines for minor offenses of up to 10 km/h over the limit, Yle reports.

Police Inspector Heikki Ihalainen of the National Police Board addressed ten widespread claims about speed controls. He confirmed that while some have merit, most are unfounded.

Speeding causes far more accidents than driving too slowly, Ihalainen said. Police may intervene if a vehicle’s speed is significantly below the limit, such as 70 km/h on a 100 km/h road.

Claims that all car speedometers overstate speed by about 10 percent are generally false. Newer models typically show minimal deviation, though older vehicles may vary more.

Overtaking does not permit exceeding the speed limit. Police may overlook minor, brief excesses only if the overtaken vehicle is driving well below the limit.

While drivers occasionally avoid fines by explaining their situation, Ihalainen noted this only applies in exceptional cases, such as emergencies, and depends on the severity of the offense.

Police are not required to show radar readings on the spot. Speed cameras, including decoys, are placed to improve road safety, not to trap drivers. New cameras can detect speeding from up to 150 meters away.

Traffic signs warning of automated speed enforcement are no longer legally required.