Driving in Switzerland
If you are planning to drive through Switzerland, you must make sure to travel on the motorways and expressways in order to take in the beautiful scenery and landscape. Plan your trip carefully well in advance and make sure you study the road map before travelling. Hardly any of the roads are in straight line and therefore driving may be difficult.
The minimum age requirement for driving in Switzerland is 18 years. Seatbelts are mandatory for passengers in the front. The amount of alcohol allowed in the blood is 80mg which is the same in the United Kingdom. Speed limits vary depending on where you are driving. In built up areas it is 50kph whereas outside built up areas it is 80kph. On motorways and expressways the speed limit is 120kph. There are several automatic cameras along the roadside to ensure that people do violate speeding laws.
Trams and buses have priorities while leaving their respective stops. If you notice a blue post while driving, it means that there is an intersection coming up along with a priority road. Traffic going up a mountain has more priority than one coming down. You must use headlights in tunnels. Horns are not meant to be used except in the case of extreme danger. You must flash your headlights instead.
You must pay an annual motorway tax while in Switzerland even if you are only using the expressways for two hours or less. A vehicle sticker also known as vignette must be on the windscreens of all vehicles. If you don’t display a vignette you be fined. You can buy these stickers in Switzerland from customs offices, service stations, garages and post offices. A GB sticker displaying your country of origin is also compulsory.
Children under 7 years of age cannot travel in the front and must use a standard child restraint. Always make sure to carry important documentation like driver’s license, vehicle registration, certificate of motor insurance and passport with you at all times. Also make sure you are carrying a photo ID to validate your passport. The minimum age for driving is 18 years provided you have a UK driver’s license. You must also use dipped headlight throughout the day.
The police are authorized to collect on the spot fines. However, make sure you obtain a receipt from them for the fine. Replacement bulb kit, fire extinguisher, first aid kit are advised but not compulsory. Visibility vests are compulsory and there should be enough for everyone travelling. It is compulsory to carry a spare pair of spectacles in the car if you wear one daily. A warning triangle is also compulsory.
You are allowed to carry petrol in a can in your car. Most gas stations accept credit and debit cards. There is no leaded petrol in Switzerland. With these road rules in mind, you can enjoy the beautiful mountain side without a care in the world. The breathtaking landscape will be worth the care you take to drive your car.
Additional Information
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