Abstract
This article reviews traffic accident statistics in Finland in the period 1970-2001. The number of minor, property damage accidents has increased but the numbers of injury and fatal accidents have decreased. The safety increase has been greatest among vulnerable road users. This is attributed to economic changes and the introduction of preventive measures. Driver training was reviewed in the 1990s with new elements in the curriculum to extend the practices taught and to strengthen the law on repeat offences. Major accident reduction was achieved among younger and novice drivers. However, as road traffic increases, more effective safety measures will be needed.