Helsinki has recorded zero road fatalities over the past year, according to data published by the EU Urban Mobility Observatory. The last traffic-related death in the Finnish capital occurred in July 2024.

City officials credit this milestone to a comprehensive and long-term approach inspired by the Vision Zero philosophy, which aims to eliminate road deaths and serious injuries. Rather than relying on a single measure, Helsinki has systematically reshaped its streets and mobility policies to prioritize safety.

Speed

Since 2021, the city has gradually reduced speed limits, with more than half of Helsinki’s streets now limited to 30 km/h, particularly in residential areas and near schools where limits were previously set at 50 km/h. Streets have also been redesigned to make them safer, with improvements such as elevated crosswalks, better lighting, safer intersections and the separation of different traffic flows to better accommodate human error.

Mobility

At the same time, Helsinki has invested in active mobility and public transport by expanding pedestrian and cycling infrastructure and providing reliable public transit services, all of which have reduced the city’s dependency on private cars. Stronger enforcement, supported by increased traffic policing and more speed cameras, has further encouraged compliance with the new rules.

Milestone

“The Finnish capital’s success is the result of a strong political commitment to systematically implementing Vision Zero. There is no single measure responsible for achieving zero traffic deaths,” said Henk Swarttouw, President of the European Cyclists’ Federation, commenting on the Observatory’s findings.

A full year without a road death marks a significant milestone for Helsinki and highlights the effectiveness of people-first mobility planning. While challenges remain, the city’s experience demonstrates how sustained, integrated action can create streets that are safe, equitable and welcoming for all.