Yes, driving with interior lights on is legal in Finland, but only under specific conditions. Finnish Road Traffic Act (Liikennelaki 729/2018) permits interior lighting if it does not impair the driver’s visibility or distract other road users. The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom) enforces these rules, with penalties for non-compliance potentially reaching €100 for endangering traffic safety. Recent 2026 amendments emphasize stricter enforcement of distraction-related infractions, aligning with EU-wide road safety directives.
Key Regulations for Driving With Interior Lights On in Finland
- Visibility and Distraction Standards: Interior lights must not obstruct the driver’s view or create glare that hinders other motorists. Traficom’s 2024 guidelines specify that lights should be dimmed or diffused to avoid sudden brightness changes.
- Prohibited Scenarios: Using interior lights while driving in tunnels, during poor visibility (e.g., fog), or in urban areas with heavy pedestrian traffic is explicitly discouraged. Violations may be cited under Section 7 of the Road Traffic Act.
- Vehicle-Specific Rules: Commercial vehicles (e.g., taxis, buses) face additional scrutiny under Traficom’s 2026 compliance checks, requiring interior lighting to meet ergonomic and safety certifications.