Finland A1 Theory Test flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Right-hand rule

At an uncontrolled junction with no signs or markings, you must give way to traffic approaching from your right. This default rule applies in Finland whenever priority is not otherwise indicated.

Overtaking on the left

In Finland, overtaking is normally done on the left. Passing on the right is allowed only when the vehicle ahead is turning left, in queuing traffic with lane-by-lane movement, or on motorways in congestion.

Two-second rule

Maintain at least a two-second gap behind the vehicle ahead, measured by counting after it passes a fixed object. Double the gap on wet or icy roads to allow for longer stopping distances.

Pedestrian crossing priority

Drivers must give way to pedestrians on or about to step onto a pedestrian crossing. Stopping or parking on the crossing or within 5 metres before it is prohibited.

Child restraint requirement

Children under 135 cm must use an approved child restraint appropriate to their size. The driver is responsible for the safety of all passengers under 15 years old.

STOP sign

A red octagonal sign requiring a complete stop at the stop line before proceeding. You must yield to traffic on the priority road and only continue when the way is clear.

Give-way sign

An inverted red triangle requiring you to yield to traffic on the priority road. Unlike the STOP sign, a full stop is not mandatory unless traffic requires it.

Priority road sign

A yellow diamond sign indicating you have right of way at junctions along that road. It remains in force until cancelled by an end-of-priority sign.

Solid white line

A continuous white line that must not be crossed. Broken white lines may be crossed when safe; double solid lines prohibit crossing from either direction.

Yellow zigzag marking

A road marking indicating a no-stopping zone, typically near pedestrian crossings or bus stops. Stopping or parking on it is prohibited regardless of other rules.

Tyre tread depth

Summer tyres require a minimum of 1.6 mm tread across the central three-quarters of the tyre. Winter tyres require at least 3 mm. Worn tyres increase aquaplaning risk and braking distance.

ABS braking system

Anti-lock braking prevents wheel lock-up and preserves steering control during hard braking. It does not shorten stopping distance on ice, so speed must still be reduced.

Headlight use

Dipped headlights are required in the dark and in rain, fog or snow. High beams are used only when not dazzling others and must be switched to dipped when meeting oncoming traffic.

Head restraint position

The top of the head restraint should be level with the top of the head. Correct positioning reduces whiplash injury in a rear-end collision.

Aquaplaning response

When water lifts the tyres off the road, ease off the accelerator, avoid hard braking, and hold the wheel steady until grip returns. Reduce speed in heavy rain to prevent it.

Black ice

A thin, invisible layer of ice that forms first on bridges, overpasses and shaded areas. Reduce speed and brake gently and early when conditions favour its formation.

Fog driving

Use dipped headlights and fog lights, reduce speed, and increase following distance. Do not use high beams because they reflect off the fog and reduce visibility.

Skid correction

If the rear slides, steer in the direction of the skid and ease off the accelerator. Avoid hard braking on ice; brake in a straight line before entering a curve.

Fatigue break

Take a break after about two hours of driving. Drowsiness impairs reaction time as much as alcohol, so stop and rest rather than continuing.

Alcohol limit

The legal limit is 0.5 per mille blood alcohol (0.22 mg/l breath). Aggravated drunk driving applies at 1.2 per mille (0.53 mg/l breath).

Driver fitness

A driver must be rested, sober and healthy enough to control the vehicle. Any medical condition that impairs driving must be reported to the authorities.

Emergency call

In a crash, stop, warn other traffic with hazard lights and a warning triangle, then call 112. Give first aid if trained and do not move an injured person unless in danger.

Warning triangle

A reflective triangle placed behind a stopped vehicle to warn approaching traffic. Place it at a safe distance, further on fast roads, and switch on hazard lights.

Roundabout priority

Traffic already circulating in the roundabout has priority. Signal right when leaving and left when changing lanes inside. Give way to cyclists and pedestrians at exit crossings.

Level crossing rule

Always give way to trains. Stop for a flashing red light or a lowering barrier. Do not enter unless the exit beyond the crossing is clear.

Winter tyre rule

M+S tyres are required in winter conditions, with at least 3 mm tread. Studded tyres are permitted during the winter period and when conditions demand them.

Load security

All loads must be secured and must not exceed the vehicle's maximum permissible mass or roof load. An unsecured load is the driver's responsibility.

Stopping distance

Stopping distance equals reaction distance plus braking distance. It grows with the square of speed, so doubling speed roughly quadruples braking distance.

Wildlife hazard

Moose and deer are most active at dawn and dusk, especially in autumn. Slow down and be ready to stop; do not swerve violently to avoid an animal.

Prescription medication

Many prescription medicines impair driving ability. Check the label and ask a pharmacist before driving. Driving under the influence of narcotics is prohibited.

First aid basics

Check responsiveness and breathing, call 112, control bleeding, and keep the injured person warm. Do not give food or drink to an injured person.

Eco-driving

Avoid harsh acceleration, use the highest practical gear, and anticipate traffic. Eco-driving reduces fuel use and emissions and lowers wear on the vehicle.