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QuizTraffic rulesSwitzerland

Test your knowledge with our multiple-choice quiz. Learn from each answer and improve your understanding of the traffic rules and road signs of Switzerland.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Switzerland
True/false 17 Switzerland 33 Car controls 109 Dashboard lights 40 Priority rules 9 Pedestrians 19 Cyclists 20 Show all 600
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

101. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Adaptive cruise control.
Parking assistance.
✓ Lane-departure warning.
Electronic stability control.

This symbol relates to the lane-departure warning or lane-keeping system. The system monitors the vehicle's position within its lane and may warn the driver if the vehicle begins to leave the lane unintentionally.

Lane-departure warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should loose items inside a vehicle be secured?

102. Why should loose items inside a vehicle be secured?

They can reduce tyre pressure while driving.
They can increase the vehicle's fuel consumption.
✓ They can become dangerous projectiles during sudden braking or a collision.
They can interfere with the vehicle's exterior lights.

Loose objects can move or be thrown forwards during sudden braking or a collision. Secure luggage and other items so they cannot injure occupants or interfere with the driver or vehicle controls.

Loose luggage and objects inside a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

103. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Cabin temperature adjustment.
Air recirculation.
Air conditioning.
✓ Airflow direction.

This control selects the direction of the ventilation airflow, such as towards the face, feet or windscreen.

Control for directing cabin ventilation airflow
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when reversing with a trailer?

104. What should you do when reversing with a trailer?

Make large steering corrections as soon as it turns.
Watch only the trailer and ignore surrounding traffic.
Ask a guide to stand directly behind the trailer.
✓ Reverse slowly and make small steering corrections.

Trailers react quickly to steering while reversing. Move slowly, observe carefully, and use a guide only from a safe visible position.

Vehicle reversing with a trailer
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a stop sign?

105. What should you do when approaching a stop sign?

✓ Come to a complete stop before proceeding.
Stop only after entering the junction.
Proceed if the vehicle ahead has already stopped.
Slow down and stop only if traffic is approaching.

A stop sign requires you to come to a complete stop at the required position. Check carefully for other road users and proceed only when it is safe.

Vehicle approaching a stop sign
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Can you assume that you are safe to drive the morning after drinking?

106. Can you assume that you are safe to drive the morning after drinking?

Yes, if you eat breakfast before driving.
Yes, if you only need to drive a short distance.
✓ No, alcohol may still remain in your body.
Yes, sleep removes all alcohol from your body.

The body needs time to process alcohol. Sleeping, eating, showering, or drinking coffee does not instantly remove it.

Fitness to drive the morning after drinking
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid overtaking when approaching a pedestrian crossing?

107. Why should you avoid overtaking when approaching a pedestrian crossing?

Crossing markings can make lane changes more difficult.
The road surface is usually more slippery near crossings.
✓ A pedestrian may be hidden by the vehicle ahead.
The crossing may make it harder to judge your speed.

A vehicle slowing or stopping near a pedestrian crossing may be hiding someone who is crossing. Overtaking could put you directly into the pedestrian's path.

Vehicles approaching a pedestrian crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you remember when using driver-assistance systems?

108. What should you remember when using driver-assistance systems?

✓ You remain responsible and must stay alert.
You only need to intervene when a warning appears.
The systems can always detect every hazard.
The systems can take full responsibility for driving.

Driver-assistance systems can help with tasks such as maintaining speed, monitoring lanes, or warning about hazards, but they do not replace the driver. Stay attentive, monitor the road and traffic, and be ready to take control whenever necessary.

Driver monitoring the road while using driver assistance
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do after a collision or hard fall?

109. What should cyclists do after a collision or hard fall?

✓ Check yourself and inspect the bicycle before riding again.
Test the bicycle by riding it before checking for damage.
Check only the parts that were directly involved in the fall.
Continue if you feel fine and the bicycle looks normal.

A fall can damage the brakes, wheels, frame, handlebars, or helmet. Injuries may also not be immediately obvious.

Checking a bicycle after a fall or collision
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

110. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Front windscreen demister.
Air conditioning.
Air recirculation.
Rear window demister.

This symbol indicates the front windscreen demister. It directs airflow towards the windscreen to help clear condensation, mist or frost and restore a clear view.

Front windscreen demister symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching a tunnel?

111. What should you do when approaching a tunnel?

Switch on the hazard lights before entering.
✓ Use the correct lights and keep a safe distance.
Increase speed to spend less time inside.
Stop and wait until the tunnel is clear.

When entering a tunnel, use the correct lights, keep enough distance, and stay alert for slower traffic.

Vehicle approaching a road tunnel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you not drive too close behind another vehicle?

112. Why should you not drive too close behind another vehicle?

It makes your steering less responsive.
✓ You may not have enough time to stop.
It causes the vehicle ahead to use more fuel.
It makes your headlights less effective.

Driving too close, or tailgating, reduces the time and space available to react and increases the risk of a rear-end collision. Use defensive driving and keep a safe following distance.

Vehicle tailgating the traffic ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Is a warning triangle required in cars in Switzerland?

113. Is a warning triangle required in cars in Switzerland?

✓ Yes.
No.

Cars in Switzerland are required to carry a warning triangle.

Warning triangle carried as vehicle safety equipment
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before connecting an electric vehicle to a charger?

114. What should you check before connecting an electric vehicle to a charger?

That the vehicle's headlights are switched on.
That the charging cable is as long as possible.
✓ That the connector and charging equipment are suitable for the vehicle.
That the vehicle doors remain unlocked.

Charging connectors and charging capabilities can vary between vehicles and charging stations. Use compatible charging equipment that is suitable for the vehicle and follow the vehicle and charger manufacturer's instructions.

Matching an electric vehicle's connector to suitable charging equipment
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the pedestrian light is red?

115. What should you do if the pedestrian light is red?

✓ Wait until it turns green.
Start crossing if the signal is about to change.
Cross if another pedestrian has already started.
Cross if there is a large enough gap in traffic.

A red pedestrian signal means you should wait before crossing.

Red pedestrian signal at a crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before a long journey to reduce the risk of driver fatigue?

116. What should you do before a long journey to reduce the risk of driver fatigue?

Plan to drive through the night.
Keep the cabin as warm as possible.
✓ Get enough sleep before starting the journey.
Drink several energy drinks before leaving.

Getting enough sleep before a long journey helps reduce the risk of driver fatigue. Plan breaks in advance and avoid starting a long drive when you are already tired.

Rest and preparation before a long drive
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect if the engine suddenly stalls while the vehicle is moving?

117. What should you expect if the engine suddenly stalls while the vehicle is moving?

The vehicle will stop immediately when the engine stops.
✓ Steering and braking may require more effort, so move to a safe place.
The steering and brakes will stop working completely.
Power assistance will continue working normally.

Power assistance may be reduced when the engine stops. Keep control, use the hazard lights if needed, and steer toward a safe stopping area.

Driver responding to an engine stall while moving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Where should passengers get in or out of a vehicle when possible?

118. Where should passengers get in or out of a vehicle when possible?

From the rear door nearest the centre of the road.
Through whichever door opens first.
From the driver's side in every situation.
✓ On the side away from moving traffic.

Passengers should get in or out on the side away from moving traffic whenever possible. This is particularly important for children, who may not recognise approaching traffic or other road users. Before opening any door, check that it is safe.

Passenger leaving a vehicle on the side away from traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a tyre has a deep cut, bulge, or exposed cords?

119. What should you do if a tyre has a deep cut, bulge, or exposed cords?

✓ Stop using the tyre and arrange professional inspection or replacement.
Cover the damaged area and keep using the tyre.
Increase the tyre pressure and continue driving.
Move the damaged tyre to another wheel position.

Cuts, bulges, and exposed cords can indicate serious structural damage. The tyre may fail suddenly and should not be used normally.

Damaged vehicle tyre requiring inspection
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do at a railway crossing with warning lights flashing?

120. What should you do at a railway crossing with warning lights flashing?

Continue if you cannot see or hear a train.
Drive around the barrier if the road ahead is clear.
✓ Stop before the crossing and wait until it is safe to proceed.
Cross quickly before the train reaches the crossing.

Flashing warning lights mean a train may be approaching. Stop before the crossing and wait until the warning has ended and the crossing is clear.

Flashing warning lights at a railway crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which gear is used to drive a manual vehicle backwards?

121. Which gear is used to drive a manual vehicle backwards?

Neutral.
2nd gear.
1st gear.
✓ R (Reverse).

Select R (Reverse) when you need to drive a manual vehicle backwards. The vehicle should be stationary before Reverse is selected.

Manual gear lever and gear-selection pattern
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

122. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Parking assistance.
Lane-departure warning.
✓ Adaptive cruise control.
Automatic start-stop system.

This symbol relates to adaptive cruise control (ACC). The system can maintain a selected speed and automatically adjust the vehicle's speed to help maintain a set distance from traffic ahead.

Adaptive cruise-control symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid travelling with the seatback excessively reclined?

123. Why should you avoid travelling with the seatback excessively reclined?

It can prevent the head restraint from being adjusted.
It can make the airbag deploy earlier.
It can cause the seat to slide forwards when braking.
✓ It can reduce how effectively the seat belt restrains you.

An excessively reclined seat can affect how the seat belt fits and restrains your body and may increase the risk of sliding under the lap belt in a collision. Sit in a reasonably upright position so the lap belt stays low across the hips and the shoulder belt lies correctly across the chest.

Vehicle seat with an excessively reclined backrest
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your headlights fail while driving at night?

124. What should you do if your headlights fail while driving at night?

Follow another vehicle closely for visibility.
✓ Reduce speed and stop safely using any remaining lights or hazard lights.
Stop immediately in the traffic lane.
Continue slowly if the road is well lit.

Without effective headlights, you may not see hazards and other road users may not see you. Stop in a safe location as soon as possible.

Vehicle with failed headlights at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should a motorcyclist avoid riding in another vehicle's blind spot?

125. Why should a motorcyclist avoid riding in another vehicle's blind spot?

The motorcycle's brakes may become less effective.
The vehicle ahead must always change lanes.
The motorcycle's indicators may be harder to see.
✓ The driver may not be able to see the motorcycle.

Motorcycles can be difficult to see, particularly when they remain in another vehicle's blind spot. Avoid staying alongside a vehicle where the driver may not see you, and choose a position where you are more likely to be visible.

Motorcycle in another vehicle's blind spot
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you have taken drugs that may impair your driving?

126. What should you do if you have taken drugs that may impair your driving?

Drive only on familiar roads.
✓ Do not drive.
Drink coffee before driving.
Drive slowly and avoid motorways.

Drugs can impair judgement, coordination, concentration, and reaction time. Their effects can be unpredictable and may continue after you feel that the main effects have passed. Do not drive while impaired.

Drug impairment and the decision not to drive
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave space when cycling beside parked cars?

127. Why should you leave space when cycling beside parked cars?

✓ A door may open suddenly.
Because the road could be slippery beside parked cars.
To stay outside the marked parking area.
To make it easier for traffic to overtake you.

A driver or passenger may open a door without seeing you. Leaving space reduces the risk of a dooring collision.

Cyclist riding beside parked cars
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect after one wild animal crosses the road?

128. What should you expect after one wild animal crosses the road?

✓ More animals may follow.
The road is likely to remain clear.
You can continue normally once the animal has passed.
The animal will usually return the same way.

Many animals travel in groups. Slow down and continue watching both sides of the road.

Wild animals crossing a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before starting a motorcycle journey?

129. What should you check before starting a motorcycle journey?

✓ Tyres, brakes, lights, steering, and controls.
Only the fuel level and mirrors.
Nothing if the motorcycle was recently serviced.
Only the tyres if the journey is long.

Before riding, carry out a basic safety check. Check the tyres, brakes, lights, steering and controls, and inspect the drive chain, belt or other drive components where applicable. Finding a problem before setting off can prevent a breakdown or loss of control.

Checking a motorcycle before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when temporary traffic lights show red?

130. What should you do when temporary traffic lights show red?

Follow the vehicle ahead through the signal.
Proceed if no road workers are visible.
Only permanent traffic lights are valid.
✓ Stop before the signal or temporary stop line.

Temporary traffic signals must be obeyed like permanent signals. Stop and wait until you are permitted to continue.

Red signal on temporary roadworks traffic lights
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why must a roof load be securely attached?

131. Why must a roof load be securely attached?

✓ It could shift or fall and create a serious hazard.
To stop the roof rack from increasing fuel consumption.
Because light roof loads cannot be affected by the wind.
To keep the vehicle within its normal height.

A roof load is exposed to strong airflow and movement. It must be restrained correctly and kept within the permitted limits.

Load secured to a vehicle's roof
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the general motorway speed limit for cars in Switzerland?

132. What is the general motorway speed limit for cars in Switzerland?

110 km/h.
130 km/h.
✓ 120 km/h.
100 km/h.

The general motorway speed limit for cars in Switzerland is 120 km/h, unless signs indicate otherwise.

Motorway speed limits for cars
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What colour is normally used for the centre line separating opposing traffic in Switzerland?

133. What colour is normally used for the centre line separating opposing traffic in Switzerland?

✓ White.
Yellow.

Roads in Switzerland normally use a white centre line to separate traffic travelling in opposite directions.

Centre-line markings separating opposing traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you check for motorcyclists before changing lanes?

134. Why should you check for motorcyclists before changing lanes?

Motorcyclists are required to stay beside the kerb.
Motorcycles need more road space than cars.
✓ Motorcycles can be harder to see and may be in your blind spot.
Motorcycles always travel faster than other traffic.

Motorcyclists are smaller and can be hidden in blind spots. Check mirrors, signal, and look carefully before changing lanes.

Motorcycle near a vehicle preparing to change lanes
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do with the clutch during emergency braking in a manual vehicle?

135. What should you do with the clutch during emergency braking in a manual vehicle?

Keep it partly pressed.
✓ Press it fully while maintaining firm brake pressure.
Release it suddenly.
Pump it repeatedly.

During emergency braking in a manual vehicle, maintain firm pressure on the brake and press the clutch pedal fully so the engine does not stall as the vehicle slows. Do not reduce braking pressure while operating the clutch.

Brake and clutch operation during an emergency stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Does driving at the speed limit always mean your speed is safe?

136. Does driving at the speed limit always mean your speed is safe?

Yes, the speed limit is always the safest speed.
✓ No, you may need to drive more slowly for the conditions.
Only when driving outside built-up areas.
Yes, if your vehicle is in good condition.

A speed limit is a maximum permitted speed, not a target. You may need to drive more slowly because of traffic, poor visibility, weather, road conditions, pedestrians, cyclists, or other hazards.

Speed-limit sign and changing road conditions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a pedestrian is crossing slowly?

137. What should you do if a pedestrian is crossing slowly?

Sound your horn to encourage them to cross faster.
✓ Wait patiently and let them finish crossing.
Pass as soon as they have cleared your part of the road.
Drive around them if there is enough room.

Some pedestrians may need more time to cross. Stay patient, keep a safe distance, and do not pressure them.

Pedestrian crossing the road slowly
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a motorcycle's drive chain is too loose?

138. What should you do if a motorcycle's drive chain is too loose?

Lubricate it and ignore the loose tension.
✓ Adjust it correctly or have it checked before riding.
Increase speed to keep the chain under tension.
Tighten it as much as possible.

A loose drive chain can affect power transmission, damage components, or come off the sprockets. The chain should have the correct tension and lubrication specified by the motorcycle manufacturer. A chain that is too tight can also cause damage.

Loose drive chain on a motorcycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should tyre pressure normally be checked?

139. How should tyre pressure normally be checked?

Only by a certified maintenance service.
By looking at whether the tyres appear firm.
Using the maximum pressure shown on the tyre.
✓ When the tyres are cold, using the manufacturer's recommended pressure.

Tyre pressure rises as tyres become warm. Check them when cold and use the pressure specified on the vehicle label or in the owner's manual.

Checking a vehicle's tyre pressure
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

140. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Seat heating.
Air recirculation.
Windscreen demisting.
✓ Cabin fan speed.

This control adjusts the cabin ventilation fan speed. Increasing the setting moves more air through the vehicle's ventilation and climate-control system.

Control for adjusting the cabin fan speed
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before driving after taking medicine?

141. What should you do before driving after taking medicine?

Take an extra dose before a long journey.
Drive slowly until you know how it affects you.
Drink coffee to prevent any side effects.
✓ Check whether it may affect your ability to drive.

Some medicines can affect driving ability by causing drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, slower reactions, or reduced concentration. Check the label or patient information and follow advice from your doctor or pharmacist before driving.

Checking medicine warnings before driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What do the + and − controls normally adjust when the speed limiter is active?

142. What do the + and − controls normally adjust when the speed limiter is active?

The following distance.
✓ The selected maximum speed.
The engine idle speed.
The transmission gear.

When the speed limiter is active, the + and − controls normally increase or decrease the selected maximum speed. The exact adjustment steps can vary between vehicles.

Plus and minus controls for the speed limiter
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when roadworks are ahead?

143. What should you do when roadworks are ahead?

✓ Slow down and follow the temporary signs.
Ignore temporary signs if permanent signs are still visible.
Maintain normal speed if your lane remains open.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely through the work zone.

Roadworks can create narrow lanes, workers near traffic, uneven surfaces, and temporary rules. Slow down and follow the signs.

Roadworks and temporary traffic signs ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

144. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Central door locking.
Fuel-filler flap release.
Window lock.
✓ Boot or tailgate release.

This symbol indicates the boot or tailgate release. Operating the control unlocks or opens the luggage compartment, depending on the vehicle.

Boot or tailgate release control
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle develops a serious fault while driving?

145. What should you do if your vehicle develops a serious fault while driving?

✓ Keep control, reduce speed, and move to a safe place if possible.
Stop immediately in the traffic lane.
Continue driving until the vehicle stops by itself.
Accelerate to see if the fault disappears.

Your first priority is to keep control of the vehicle. Reduce speed smoothly and move out of the path of traffic where possible, signalling when appropriate. Avoid harsh steering or braking unless necessary.

Vehicle stopped after developing a mechanical fault
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What may happen if you release the clutch too quickly when moving off?

146. What may happen if you release the clutch too quickly when moving off?

✓ The engine may stall.
The headlights may switch off.
The steering may lock.
The parking brake may engage.

Releasing the clutch pedal too quickly when moving off can cause the engine to stall. Release the clutch smoothly through the biting point while applying the accelerator progressively.

Clutch release and engine stalling when moving off
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should the driver's floor mat be properly secured?

147. Why should the driver's floor mat be properly secured?

It could prevent the seat belt from locking.
It could reduce the effectiveness of the airbags.
It could cause the tyres to lose pressure.
✓ It could slide forwards and interfere with the pedals.

A loose or incorrectly fitted floor mat can move into the pedal area and interfere with the accelerator, brake, or clutch. Make sure the driver's floor mat is correctly fitted, secured, and does not obstruct any pedal.

Driver's floor mat near the pedals
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do about a chip in the windscreen?

148. What should you do about a chip in the windscreen?

✓ Have it assessed and repaired promptly.
Wait until the chip becomes a larger crack.
Clean the glass and continue driving normally.
Cover the chip so it cannot spread.

A chip can obstruct your view, weaken the glass, and develop into a larger crack. Have it checked and repaired promptly.

Stone chip in a vehicle's windscreen
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the bonnet suddenly opens while you are driving?

149. What should you do if the bonnet suddenly opens while you are driving?

Accelerate briefly to try to close the bonnet.
Continue driving by looking through the side window.
✓ Look through any available gap, slow down smoothly, and stop safely.
Brake hard immediately, even if traffic is behind you.

The bonnet may completely obstruct your view. Avoid sudden movements, use the road markings or available gap to maintain direction, and stop safely.

Raised bonnet obstructing the driver's forward view
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can strong crosswinds affect a vehicle towing a trailer?

150. How can strong crosswinds affect a vehicle towing a trailer?

They make the trailer more stable at higher speeds.
✓ They can push the trailer sideways and reduce stability.
They improve tyre grip on exposed roads.
They affect only the towing vehicle, not the trailer.

Trailers have large side surfaces and may be affected strongly by wind, especially on bridges and exposed roads.

Vehicle and trailer exposed to crosswinds
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA