On the road in Switzerland
Traffic rules
The Traffic Rules Act (TRA) defines the effective rules in Switzerland. Before the generally accepted traffic rules, traffic signs and signals must always be respected.
Speed limits
The speed limit on motorways is generally 120 km/h, 100 km/h on motor roads, 80 km/h on normal roads outside towns and 50 km/h within towns. Driving in tunnels requires heightened attention: maintaining sufficient distance from the car in front of you and paying attention to traffic signals are mandatory.
Motorways - fees
Switzerland charges a fee for the use of motorways (green road signs). The vignette, which is a sticker applied to inside of the windscreen, costs a flat-rate price and is mandatory for motor vehicles and trailers up to a total weight of 3.5 t each. Vignettes can be purchased at customs offices, post offices, petrol stations, automobile associations and railway stations. They are valid from 1 December until 31 January of the year after the following year.
Legal blood alcohol limit
Since 1 January 2005, the legal blood alcohol limit in Switzerland is 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood.
Other important rules
In Switzerland drivers and passengers must generally fasten their seat belts (front and back seats). Children under 7 must be secured in a child car seat or a similar special seat. Helmets are mandatory for all motorised two-wheelers, and as of March 2006 for trikes and quads. It is against the law to use a mobile phone while driving, except when using a hands-free system.
Road condition, breakdown assistance
Information on road conditions and the traffic situation can be obtained by dialling 163 and is provided on the radio and on the Internet. In the event of a breakdown, assistance can be requested 24 hours a day by dialling 117. The police emergency number 117 and ambulance service emergency number 144 are free of charge
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