A recent announcement from the Finnish Traffic Insurance Centre emphasizes that neglecting to secure traffic insurance upon purchasing a vehicle can result in significant financial repercussions. This situation often arises from human error, such as delaying the acquisition of insurance or mistakenly believing it is already in place. The buyer generally has a seven-day window to transfer the insurance into their name, provided the vehicle has an existing, valid insurance policy at the time of sale. However, if the vehicle is uninsured, the insurance must be obtained immediately on the day of the purchase.

One common scenario leading to confusion involves so-called intermediary owners. In cases where the seller is not the official owner listed in the vehicle registry, but the vehicle is still registered under the name of a previous owner, the insurance status can become complicated. The Finnish Traffic Insurance Centre advises that buyers exercise caution when purchasing used vehicles and ensure they clarify the rightful owner of the vehicle. Without proper insurance coverage at the time of purchase, buyers risk incurring uninsured driving charges, which can become quite costly.

Overall, this warning serves as an important reminder to potential car buyers in Finland about the potential pitfalls in the vehicle purchasing process. By being diligent about securing insurance and understanding the ownership status of the vehicle, buyers can avoid unexpected financial burdens and ensure that their investment is protected from the outset. This proactive approach is essential for a smooth and secure vehicle transaction, particularly in the complicated landscape of used car purchases.