Increasing number of white cars raises visibility concerns for driver education triangles in Finland

Under current law, vehicles used for driver education must display a visible white equilateral triangle at the rear. The triangle must have sides measuring between 16 and 25 centimeters and be mounted in a location that is clearly visible. However, there are no further specifications for the triangle itself. In practice, the white triangle is often hard to distinguish against a white vehicle, as demonstrated in accompanying images.

Mika Tiitinen, a driving instructor from a driving school in Kotka, has observed an increasing number of white cars in driver training, making the visibility of the teaching triangle a growing concern. The prevalence of white vehicles has risen in Finland, with one in six passenger cars now being white. Additionally, the share of driving tests conducted under supervision by parents or guardians has significantly increased, with about 40% of all driving learners studying under such permits.

Traficom, the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency, is aware of the triangle’s poor visibility and plans to address this issue in future regulations. “A change to the driving license law is expected in a few years, and the visibility of the triangle will be part of the discussion,” says leading expert Marjo Immonen.

The Automobile Federation advises that the triangle should be outlined with a black marker or tape to enhance visibility against a white background. Mika Tiitinen suggests that this practice could be beneficial for vehicles of any color, as long as the triangle’s dimensions remain compliant with legal requirements.

Drivers are reminded to maintain a safe distance from vehicles displaying the triangle, as the learner driver may make unexpected maneuvers or experience mechanical issues.