Katkoviivaan

Katkoviivaan is a term originating from Finnish that translates to "broken line" or "dashed line." It is most commonly used in the context of road markings to indicate that a driver may overtake if it is safe to do so. This type of line is typically painted on the center of a road, separating lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions.

The presence of a katkoviivaan signifies a permissive overtaking situation. Drivers are allowed to cross the line and enter the lane of oncoming traffic to pass a slower vehicle, provided that visibility is clear and there is no oncoming traffic that would pose a hazard. It is a visual cue to drivers about the rules of the road regarding passing maneuvers.

In contrast to a solid line, which prohibits overtaking, the katkoviivaan offers a degree of flexibility for drivers to maintain traffic flow. The interpretation and application of katkoviivaan are standardized within Finnish traffic regulations. The distinction between a single katkoviivaan and a double katkoviivaan, where two dashed lines are present, can sometimes indicate stricter rules or higher risk areas, though generally both permit overtaking. Understanding the meaning of katkoviivaan is crucial for safe driving in Finland.