“Speeding is not a violation of a traffic code but a legal offence.” Imagine those words echoing as we stand here, a stark contrast to the artistic expression found at 20km/h.
Welcome to 20km/h, a gallery at Badenerstrasse 557. But today we are going to talk about Swiss traffic. Switzerland may seem like a tease if you like cars. It boasts some of the world’s greatest driving roads. However, you can face jail time for speeding. This applies even on highways. Traffic rules are strictly enforced. Yet, the allure of those mountain roads remains irresistible.
Stick to the speed limits. The back roads become a blast to drive on. You avoid fines or arrest. Driving becomes a good way to see the country. The vista from some mountain roads makes it worth the cost and hassle.
Imagine getting caught by a speed camera. The police will send you the fine, even if you live abroad. Fail to comply. There is a good chance that an international rogatory will be issued. You might have to go to court in your home country. Many countries enforce this. These include Europe, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many in South America and Asia. Failure to comply leads to an arrest warrant issued by your home country.
To use the motorways, vehicles under 3500 kg need to buy a vignette. The sticker costs 40 Fr. It allows unlimited motorway use for the entire year. This runs from December 1 of the preceding year to January 31 of the following year. Trailers need a separate vignette. Avoiding motorways to save the toll is futile. The amount is well worth it even if you are only transiting. Otherwise, you will likely spend several times more driving through roundabouts. You will also encounter random uninteresting villages. Driving without a valid vignette incurs a 200 Fr. fine. You also have to purchase a vignette immediately. That makes a total fine of 240 Fr. Sharing vignettes is illegal. It carries the same fines as not having one. It must be irretrievably attached to the windscreen. Rentals should have the vignette already paid for. Always ask to be sure.
Swiss road signs follow international norms. However, some are Swiss-specific. Motorways are indicated by green signs with white characters. Principal roads have blue signs with white characters. Minor roads display white signs with black characters. Speed limits are key. Expect frequent changes. Most limits are only signposted once. Pay attention. Missing a sign is not an excuse. Fines are hefty. Focus your attention fully on the road. Don’t get distracted by the beautiful landscape. People tend to stick closely to speed limits. If stopped by the police, pay your fine on the spot.
In Switzerland, traffic laws are part of the Swiss Internal Law. Comply strictly with traffic regulations and signs. Learn them before you come to Switzerland. Not knowing them is no excuse. Traffic rules are frequently checked and strictly applied. Traffic fines are hefty. Never cross a solid, unbroken security line, especially double lines. These separate directions on roads with three or more lanes. They are there for your safety. U-turns are strictly prohibited in tunnels.
Switzerland has banned all GPS appliances with built-in speed camera databases. Police may fine you and impound your device, even if turned off. The blood alcohol concentration limit is 0.05%. Don’t drink and drive. You will lose your license for several months. A heavy fine may be imposed. Motorists must switch on their headlights or daytime running lights while driving during the day. Driving is on the right side of the road. The priority to right rule exists everywhere. At intersections, priority is given to the driver on the right. This excludes roads with right of way indicated by a principal road sign. When merging into traffic circles, give priority to vehicles already in the roundabout. Always overtake on the left. Don’t cross an unbroken center line. Indicate each time you change your direction or lane.
Now, as we leave 20km/h, remember: observe the speed limits in built-up areas. Some roads are limited to 30 km/h or even to 20 km/h. A pedestrian always has right of way. Enjoy Switzerland’s beauty, but drive safely.