moottoriväyliin

Moottoriväylä, often translated as "motorway" or "expressway," refers to a major public road designed for high-speed vehicular traffic. These routes are typically characterized by multiple lanes in each direction, separated by a median strip or barrier. Access to and from moottoriväylä is strictly controlled, usually through grade-separated interchanges such as on-ramps and off-ramps, eliminating at-grade intersections and traffic lights.

The primary purpose of moottoriväylä is to facilitate rapid and efficient long-distance travel, connecting major cities and regions. They are designed to handle a high volume of traffic safely, with speed limits generally set higher than on ordinary roads. Pedestrians, cyclists, and slow-moving vehicles are typically prohibited from using moottoriväylä to maintain traffic flow and safety.

In Finland, the term moottoriväylä specifically refers to roads that meet certain technical and safety standards, distinguishing them from other types of roads. These standards often include pavement quality, lighting, signage, and emergency access. The development and maintenance of moottoriväylä are usually the responsibility of national or regional road authorities.