Winter speed limits come into force in phases from Thursday

Speed limits on roads and highways will be lowered from Thursday (22 October) gradually as winter speed limits will come into force, said the Finnish Transport Infrastructure agency.

The speed limit signs will be changed throughout the country by the end of this month.

The winter speed limit is normally lowered by 20 kilometres per hour compared to the summer speed limit.

There are, however, some exceptions, and the winter speed limit on main trunk roads is 80 kilometres per hour, although the speed limit remains at 100 kilometres per hour in some less-travelled area.

The limit will be lowered to 70 kilometres per hour on some roads where vehicular movement is higher than normal.

On the highway, the speed limit will be lowered to 100 kilometres per hour from the 120 kilometres per hour.

According to the Finnish Transport Infrastructure agency, the reduced speed limits during the winter on an average saves the lives of eight people a year.

It also said the lower speed helps to lessen fuel consumption and reduce carbon emission.

Summer speed limits will be re-introduced in March-April, as days become longer and road condition improves.