Liikennerikkomus

Liikennerikkomus is a Finnish legal term describing minor traffic offenses that are treated as infractions rather than crimes. In Finnish law, liikennerikkomus covers breaches of traffic regulations by road users—drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians—that are not considered serious crimes. The term is used in connection with the Traffic Act and other traffic regulations, with liability often depending on fault or negligence.

Common examples include small speed violations, running a red light, unsafe overtaking, failure to yield to pedestrians at crossings, not using safety equipment such as seat belts or child seats, and using a mobile phone while driving in prohibited contexts. The precise elements and penalties depend on the applicable statute.

Enforcement is usually conducted by the police, with penalties administered either as fines or, in some cases, court-imposed sanctions. The most common outcome is a fine, typically a päiväsakko (day-fine) adjusted to the offender’s income and circumstances. In more serious cases or for repeated offenses, imprisonment for a limited term or other sanctions may be imposed, and administrative measures such as a temporary license suspension can be used.

Liikennerikkomus is distinct from more severe traffic crimes that cause injury or death or involve gross negligence, which are treated as criminal offenses with higher penalties. It sits within the broader framework of traffic regulation and public order in Finland.