Speed limits

In the central urban area of Kuopio, a regional speed limit system is in place. The speed limit on main streets is generally 50 km/h. In the city center, the speed limit is mostly 30 km/h. In residential areas, speed limits of 40 and 30 km/h are used. 

The aim of speed limits is to influence traffic safety, economy, flexibility, and the comfort of the living environment. 

As speed decreases, observation and assessment abilities improve, and reaction and braking distances shorten. In the event of an accident, the collision forces are smaller, and the consequences are generally less severe. This is particularly emphasized on residential streets, which typically do not have structurally separated sidewalks, so pedestrians walk along the edge of the roadway. 

The collision energy of a vehicle quadruples when the collision speed doubles. A collision with a pedestrian at a speed of over 40 km/h significantly increases the likelihood of death. 

It is important to note that the speed of the vehicle must be adjusted to what traffic safety requires, taking into account traffic conditions (weather conditions and road condition, visibility), the traffic environment, and other road users. The speed must be kept such that the driver maintains control of the vehicle. The vehicle must be able to stop within the visible part of the roadway and in all foreseeable situations. 

The city planning committee decides on speed limits. An application to change the speed limit can be addressed to the city planning services. Municipal technical planning prepares the proposal for the city planning committee.