Väistämismerkinnät

Väistämismerkinnät, commonly translated as "yield signs," are traffic control devices used to indicate that a driver must allow other traffic or pedestrians to pass before proceeding. These signs are typically triangular in shape, with a white background and a red border. The word "VÄISTÄ" (meaning "yield" in Finnish) is often displayed in black lettering within the white triangle, although variations exist in different regions.

The purpose of a väistämismerkintä is to manage traffic flow at intersections or other points where the right-of-way is not clearly established by other means. When approaching a yield sign, drivers are obligated to slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary. They must yield to vehicles on the intersecting road that are close enough to pose a hazard, as well as to any pedestrians in or entering the crosswalk. Failure to yield can result in accidents and traffic violations.

Väistämismerkinnät are distinct from stop signs, which require a complete stop regardless of traffic conditions. Yield signs are often used at locations where a full stop might impede traffic unnecessarily if the intersecting road is clear. Their implementation helps to improve safety and efficiency by ensuring that drivers make conscious decisions about when it is safe to enter the intersection. The precise interpretation and application of yield signs can vary slightly by jurisdiction, but the fundamental principle of allowing precedence to other road users remains constant.