The new Road Traffic Act also banned distracting and unnecessary driving outside urban areas. For some young people, it is more than just a matter of driving for pleasure.
The parking lot of the market, which is open 24 hours a day, is a popular meeting place for young people in Lahti.
– We posted a message on social media asking if there was any demand and people we could come and say hello to while we were here in the “big village”.
In June 2020, the new Road Traffic Act made unnecessary and distracting driving prohibited throughout the country, whereas before the change, such driving was only prohibited in urban areas. Salminen knows that the law, which curtails recreational driving, has been tightened.
– The police have never stopped me in a car. But there is such information that if you see policemen driving at the market in Heinola, you are not allowed to drive around the market three times, or at least you will be fined.
In his riding, Salminen does not stick to a certain ring.
– Sometimes the direction you drive changes. I would also like to go somewhere to stop at a shop or say hello to friends at the other end of the village.
Driving to Salmi is not pointless or unnecessary. It works as a mind tranquilizer. At the same time, you can see the world and your friends. The plan for the rest of the evening is clear.
– From here I will drive to see if there is cheap gas available and then back towards Heinola.
The corona was visible in places in the block rally atmosphere
Police Board statistics show that the police recorded 183 punishments for block rallies in the whole country last year. Last year, the police handed out 239 punishments, which is about a third more than last year. Therefore, the punishments given by the police for the block rally increased after the new road traffic law came into force.
The figures include cars, mopeds and motorcycles.
This year, there are more than 150 entries so far.
When noticing disturbing, loud driving, mopeding or motorcycling, the police intervene. Distracting driving can result in a 100 euro traffic violation fee.
– We deal with faults immediately and visibly, so that it also has a preventive effect, says Havusela.
Last weekend, Havusela was involved in Heinola handing out temporary driving bans to seven young drivers. The fresh snow had prompted them to try side skating in the city center.
– There was a case where three cars drove in a row across the width of the lane in a side skid in a place where there were pedestrian crossings and other things. However, this is not typical driving, but as a rule young people and young adults drive in a relaxed manner.
Photojournalism is not just a pastime
Häme police chief constable Pasi Havusela understands the social side of young people’s rides. Driving in the center has its benefits, as long as it is not disruptive.
– Young people or young adults should not be completely prevented from driving, for example, in city centers. It increases the driving experience and vehicle control, which contributes to traffic safety.
For some young people, driving is an important part of life.