Pysähtymismerkki

Pysähtymismerkki is a Finnish term that translates to "stop sign" in English. It is a traffic sign that requires drivers to come to a complete stop before proceeding. In Finland, the standard pysähtymismerkki is an octagonal red sign with the word "STOP" written in white capital letters. This sign is universally recognized and used in many countries around the world, although the specific wording may vary.

The purpose of a pysähtymismerkki is to ensure safety at intersections and other potentially hazardous locations where visibility may be limited or traffic flow requires strict regulation. When encountering a pysähtymismerkki, drivers must bring their vehicle to a full stop at the marked stop line or, if no line is present, at the edge of the intersection. After stopping, drivers must yield to any traffic already in the intersection or approaching from other directions before it is safe to proceed. Failure to obey a pysähtymismerkki can result in traffic violations, fines, and potentially accidents. The implementation of stop signs is a crucial component of road safety management.