Minister Harakka: Private car use by people in risk groups safeguarded also in emergency conditions

The purpose of the proposed amendments is, for example, to improve the flexibility of the provisions on roadworthiness inspections.

"I would like to emphasise that the intention is to protect those at risk so that they can stay at home and postpone the roadworthiness inspection of their cars. However, I urge that the inspection be carried out in time if the postponement can be avoided. The vehicle inspection stations provide their services normally - and quite likely without queues," says Minister of Transport and Communications Timo Harakka.

Another amendment proposal concerning the risk groups is related to medical certificates to be presented in connection with the renewal of the driving licence. People over 70 years of age must present a medical certificate to renew their driving licence. According to the proposed amendment, during the emergency conditions, the certificate could be submitted at a later date.

"The Government recommends that people over 70 years of age avoid contacts with other people. Therefore, it is important that they can continue to use their own cars during the current emergency conditions," Minister Harakka says.

The Ministry of Transport and Communications will hold a consultation on the government proposal on Thursday 16 April at 14.00 via Skype. After the consultation round, the Government will submit its proposal to Parliament.

The proposed amendments to transport legislation would be temporary in nature.

Summer tyres to be changed as usual

Although amendments are proposed to certain provisions concerning car drivers, summer tyres should be changed as usual.

Summer tyres are already allowed but they should be taken in use only if the weather conditions so allow.

Studded tyres must not be used after 20 April 2020. The use of studded tyres is, however, permissible also after 20 April, if the weather or driving conditions so require.

Inquiries:

Matti Sadeniemi, Special Adviser, tel. +358 40 586 7234

Press release of 14 April 2020 (in Finnish and Swedish only): Temporary amendments to transport legislation - consultation on 16 April
Lausuntopalvelu.fi: Request for an opinion (in Finnish and Swedish only) Government proposal on temporary legislative amendments to be introduced to provisions under the Ministry of Transport and Communications purview (VN/8406/2020)
Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom, press release 31 March 2020 (in Finnish and Swedish only): Summer tyres to be fitted based on own needs