Opastusmerkit

Opastusmerkit, or information signs, are a category of road signs in Finland that guide traffic by indicating directions, destinations, distances, and nearby services. They help motorists navigate toward towns, municipalities and points of interest, and direct attention to facilities such as fuel stations, restaurants, hotels, parking, and medical services. The signs form part of the national traffic sign system (liikennemerkistö) and are designed for quick recognition at driving speeds.

Structure and examples: Typical opastusmerkit include town- and city-direction signs showing the name of the destination and the distance, route or exit signs on highways, and service signs listing available amenities. They use arrows or lines to indicate the correct direction and may include standardized pictograms for services.

Design and standards: The signs follow national guidelines coordinated by Traficom and are harmonized with European traffic sign conventions. They employ standardized typography and symbols to ensure legibility and universality. Colors and layouts differentiate sign types and ensure visibility in different lighting and weather conditions.

Placement and practice: Opastusmerkit are installed at appropriate decision points such as intersections, ramp junctions, and along main routes before turns or exits. Their position and content are designed to provide sufficient planning time for motorists while minimizing distraction.

Legal status: The use of opastusmerkit is governed by Finnish road traffic regulations and the national road sign manual, aligning with international agreements on road signs.