kärkikaistat

Kärkikaistat, translated literally as "leading strips" or "tip strips," refers to the outermost lane on a road that is designated for vehicles intending to turn left at an upcoming intersection. In some traffic systems, particularly in Finland, these lanes are marked with specific signage and road markings to manage traffic flow efficiently. The purpose of kärkikaistat is to separate left-turning traffic from through traffic, thereby reducing congestion and improving safety. Vehicles using a kärkikaista must exit the main flow of traffic and proceed into the designated lane well in advance of the intersection. This allows vehicles going straight or turning right to continue unimpeded. The signage typically indicates that the lane is exclusively for left turns and may show an arrow pointing left, sometimes with a supplementary sign indicating "vain vasemmalle" (only left). Drivers are expected to be aware of these lanes and use them appropriately to avoid obstructing other traffic or causing confusion. The implementation of kärkikaistat aims to streamline traffic at busy junctions, particularly where a significant volume of left-turning vehicles is anticipated.