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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 should you do when driving on icy roads?

151. What should you do when driving on icy roads?

Brake firmly before bends to reduce speed.
Follow the vehicle ahead more closely for guidance.
Use quick steering corrections if the vehicle starts to slide.
✓ Drive slowly and avoid sudden braking, steering, or acceleration.

Ice greatly reduces tyre grip. Drive gently, keep extra distance, and avoid sudden movements that could cause a skid.

Vehicle travelling on an icy road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What can happen if you use the brakes continuously on a long descent?

152. What can happen if you use the brakes continuously on a long descent?

✓ The brakes may overheat and become less effective.
The brakes will automatically cool while being used.
Nothing, if the brake fluid level is correct.
The brakes may become more effective as they heat up.

Continuous braking can cause the brakes to overheat and fade, reducing braking performance. Use a lower gear to help control speed with engine braking.

Vehicle braking during a long descent
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you make sure drivers have seen you before crossing?

153. Why should you make sure drivers have seen you before crossing?

Once a driver sees you, no further checks are needed.
Eye contact means the driver must stop for you.
✓ To reduce the risk of stepping into their path.
Making eye contact gives you priority.

Before crossing, make sure approaching drivers have noticed you and that it is safe to proceed. Do not assume that a driver will stop simply because you have seen each other.

Pedestrian checking whether an approaching driver has seen them
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should heavy items be placed low and evenly distributed?

154. Why should heavy items be placed low and evenly distributed?

To reduce fuel consumption.
✓ To help keep the vehicle stable.
To increase the available luggage space.
To make the steering lighter.

A high or uneven load can make the vehicle unstable, especially during braking, cornering, or sudden steering.

Heavy luggage positioned low in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does the resume function of cruise control normally do?

155. What does the resume function of cruise control normally do?

Switches cruise control off completely.
✓ Returns the vehicle to the previously set cruising speed.
Sets the vehicle's current speed as a new limit.
Applies the brakes automatically.

The resume function normally returns the vehicle to the previously set cruise-control speed after the system has been temporarily disengaged. The driver should use it only when traffic and road conditions are suitable.

RES button for resuming the stored cruising speed
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should cyclists ride when travelling in a group?

156. How should cyclists ride when travelling in a group?

Ride side by side even when traffic cannot pass safely.
Ride as close together as possible to stay as one group.
✓ Predictably, with safe gaps and clear communication.
Follow the cyclist ahead without checking traffic yourself.

Safe spacing and communication help group members respond to braking, turns, obstacles, and changing traffic conditions.

Group of cyclists riding along a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should signal before turning or changing lanes.

157. You should signal before turning or changing lanes.

✓ True.
False.

A clear signal helps other road users understand your intentions, but you must still check that the manoeuvre can be made safely.

Vehicle signalling before a turn
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do after fitting a temporary spare wheel?

158. What should you do after fitting a temporary spare wheel?

✓ Follow its speed and distance restrictions and replace it as soon as possible.
Ignore its speed restriction on short journeys.
Increase its pressure to match the other tyres.
Drive normally if the vehicle feels stable.

Temporary spare wheels may have limited speed, distance, and handling capabilities. Arrange a proper repair or replacement promptly.

Temporary spare wheel fitted to a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which distance unit is used on road signs in Switzerland?

159. Which distance unit is used on road signs in Switzerland?

✓ Kilometres.
Miles.

Road distances in Switzerland are normally shown in kilometres.

Distance units used on road signs
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space behind a vehicle climbing a steep hill?

160. Why should you leave extra space behind a vehicle climbing a steep hill?

✓ It may slow down suddenly or roll backward.
Its engine may become louder on the hill.
It must always stop before reaching the top.
Its headlights may point higher uphill.

Vehicles may lose speed or briefly roll backward when starting on a steep incline. Extra space gives you more time to react.

Vehicle following another up a steep hill
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you never leave a petrol or diesel engine running in an enclosed space?

161. Why should you never leave a petrol or diesel engine running in an enclosed space?

The cooling system can stop working.
The engine can lose oil pressure.
✓ Dangerous carbon monoxide can build up.
The tyres can lose pressure more quickly.

Exhaust gases from petrol and diesel engines can contain carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can build up quickly in an enclosed or poorly ventilated space. Never leave the engine running inside a closed garage or similar area.

Running vehicle engine in an enclosed space
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What makes up the total stopping distance of a vehicle?

162. What makes up the total stopping distance of a vehicle?

Reaction distance and following distance.
Tyre distance and braking distance.
Visibility distance and reaction distance.
✓ Reaction distance and braking distance.

The total stopping distance consists of the distance travelled while the driver reacts to a hazard plus the distance travelled while the vehicle is braking to a stop.

Reaction and braking distances before a vehicle stops
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if a child runs onto the road ahead?

163. What should you do if a child runs onto the road ahead?

Accelerate to pass before the child moves further into the road.
Swerve immediately into the opposite lane.
✓ Brake firmly and be prepared to stop.
Sound your horn and continue driving.

Children can act unpredictably. Brake firmly, stay alert, and be prepared for more children to follow.

Child entering the road ahead of a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you be careful when driving beside a bus at a stop?

164. Why should you be careful when driving beside a bus at a stop?

✓ Passengers may step out or cross near the bus.
A stopped bus always has priority over passing traffic.
Vehicles beside a bus must always stop and wait.
Bus stops usually have a lower speed limit.

Stopped buses can hide pedestrians, and passengers may cross unexpectedly. Slow down and be ready to react.

Vehicle passing a bus at a stop
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your main beam could dazzle another driver?

165. What should you do if your main beam could dazzle another driver?

Keep the main beam on unless the other driver flashes you.
Flash the main beam briefly before passing.
Move farther from the centre and keep the main beam on.
✓ Switch to dipped headlights.

Main beam can dazzle other road users and reduce their visibility. Switch to dipped headlights whenever your main beam could dazzle another driver.

Headlight glare affecting another road user
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space when passing road workers?

166. Why should you leave extra space when passing road workers?

Road workers always have priority over passing traffic.
✓ They may be working close to moving traffic.
To avoid damaging temporary road markings.
To keep construction dust away from your vehicle.

Workers may be only a short distance from passing vehicles. Reduce speed and leave as much safe space as possible.

Vehicle passing workers close to the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

167. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Lane-departure warning.
Electronic stability control.
Automatic emergency braking.
✓ Parking assistance.

This symbol relates to the vehicle's parking assistance system. Depending on the vehicle, the system may use sensors or cameras to detect obstacles and assist the driver while parking.

Parking-assistance symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

168. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Main beam.
✓ Sidelights.
Rear fog lights.
Dipped headlights.

This symbol indicates that the sidelights, also known as position or parking lights, are switched on. They help make the vehicle visible to other road users but provide little illumination of the road ahead.

Sidelight indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should a motorcycle helmet be worn correctly and securely fastened?

169. Why should a motorcycle helmet be worn correctly and securely fastened?

✓ To reduce the risk of serious head injury in a collision.
To prevent the motorcycle from skidding.
To reduce fuel consumption at higher speeds.
To make the motorcycle easier to balance.

A correctly fitted and securely fastened motorcycle helmet helps protect the rider's head and can reduce the risk and severity of head injury in a collision or fall.

Motorcyclist wearing a securely fastened helmet
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

170. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Sidelights.
Dipped headlights.
✓ Direction indicators.
Hazard warning lights.

This symbol indicates that a direction indicator is operating. The flashing indicator shows the direction in which the driver intends to turn or change position on the road.

Direction-indicator symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

171. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Central door locking.
Child safety lock.
Mirror adjustment.
✓ Window lock.

This control activates the window lock, which normally prevents passengers from operating their electric windows while leaving control with the driver.

Lock switch for passenger window controls
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should unnecessary engine idling be avoided?

172. Why should unnecessary engine idling be avoided?

✓ It uses fuel without moving the vehicle.
It prevents the battery from charging.
It always causes the engine to overheat.
It immediately damages the brakes.

An idling combustion engine uses fuel while the vehicle is stationary. Avoid unnecessary idling where it is safe and appropriate to switch the engine off, taking account of the vehicle manufacturer's instructions and local rules.

Stationary vehicle with its engine idling
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which pedal is used to slow down or stop the vehicle?

173. Which pedal is used to slow down or stop the vehicle?

The clutch pedal.
The footrest.
✓ The brake pedal.
The accelerator pedal.

The brake pedal is used to reduce the vehicle's speed or bring it to a stop. In a manual vehicle, it is the middle pedal.

Brake pedal in the driver's footwell
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

174. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Power-steering control.
Seat adjustment.
✓ Steering-wheel adjustment.
Exterior mirror adjustment.

This control adjusts the position of the steering wheel. Depending on the vehicle, the steering wheel may be moved up or down and forwards or backwards to obtain a safe and comfortable driving position.

Control for adjusting the steering-wheel position
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you check before starting a bicycle journey?

175. What should you check before starting a bicycle journey?

Only the tyres and chain.
The lights, but not the steering or brakes.
✓ The brakes, tyres, lights, and steering.
Nothing if the bicycle worked properly yesterday.

A basic safety check can reveal problems with the brakes, tyres, lights, or steering before they cause an accident.

Checking a bicycle before a journey
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is riding a bicycle after drinking alcohol dangerous?

176. Why is riding a bicycle after drinking alcohol dangerous?

A small amount of alcohol improves balance.
✓ Alcohol can reduce your balance, coordination, judgement, and reaction time.
Cycling after drinking is safe on quiet roads.
Alcohol affects driving more than cycling.

Alcohol can make it harder to balance, steer, judge distances, and react to hazards. Riding a bicycle while impaired may also be against the law.

Alcohol consumption and bicycle-riding safety
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you brake on a slippery road?

177. How should you brake on a slippery road?

Apply the brakes suddenly before the tyres lose grip.
✓ Brake gently and progressively.
Steer sharply while braking to avoid slippery areas.
Brake harder than usual to shorten the stopping distance.

Sudden braking can cause the wheels to lose grip. Smooth, progressive braking reduces the risk of skidding.

Braking on a slippery road surface
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space when passing cyclists in strong winds?

178. Why should you leave extra space when passing cyclists in strong winds?

Strong wind makes bicycle brakes less effective.
Cyclists always ride more slowly in strong winds.
✓ They may be blown sideways unexpectedly.
Cyclists must stop when a vehicle passes them.

Strong gusts can affect cyclists' balance and direction. Extra passing space reduces the risk of a collision.

Vehicle passing a cyclist in windy conditions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if passengers are distracting you while driving?

179. What should you do if passengers are distracting you while driving?

✓ Ask them to stop and keep your attention on the road.
Continue the conversation while watching the road.
Turn around briefly so you can speak to them.
Drive faster so you can finish the journey sooner.

Passengers can reduce a driver's attention and concentration. If their behaviour becomes distracting, ask them to stop and keep your focus on driving. If necessary, stop somewhere safe before dealing with the situation.

Passengers distracting a driver
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Are headlights required during the day in Switzerland?

180. Are headlights required during the day in Switzerland?

No.
✓ Yes.

Drivers in Switzerland are generally required to use daytime running lights or dipped headlights during the day.

Vehicle headlights used during daylight
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can a roof load affect vehicle handling?

181. How can a roof load affect vehicle handling?

✓ It can raise the centre of gravity and reduce stability.
It affects only fuel consumption, not handling.
It makes the vehicle more stable in bends.
It lowers the vehicle's centre of gravity.

Weight carried high on the vehicle can increase body movement and make sudden steering or cornering less stable.

Vehicle carrying a raised roof load
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when approaching stationary or slow-moving traffic on a motorway?

182. What should you do when approaching stationary or slow-moving traffic on a motorway?

✓ Reduce speed early and be prepared to stop.
Brake only when the vehicle ahead begins braking.
Maintain speed until you are close to the queue.
Change lanes immediately to avoid slowing down.

Motorway queues can appear suddenly. Early braking gives following traffic more time to react.

Slow-moving traffic ahead on a motorway
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the button on a manual handbrake lever used for?

183. What is the button on a manual handbrake lever used for?

To apply the service brakes.
To select reverse gear.
To unlock the steering.
✓ To release the handbrake mechanism.

To release a manual handbrake, pull the lever up slightly, press and hold the release button, then lower the lever under control.

Release button on a manual handbrake lever
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do when cycling downhill?

184. What should cyclists do when cycling downhill?

Use only one brake to reduce the risk of skidding.
Brake as late as possible before bends.
Look only at the road directly in front of you.
✓ Control your speed and keep both hands ready to brake.

Higher speed increases stopping distance and reduces reaction time. Maintain a speed that allows you to stop safely.

Cyclist riding down a hill
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before crossing the road?

185. What should you do before crossing the road?

Follow another pedestrian without checking yourself.
Listen for vehicles instead of looking.
Cross if the nearest vehicle is slowing down.
✓ Look for traffic in all directions.

Always check for approaching traffic from every direction before crossing.

Pedestrian checking for traffic before crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You should adjust your mirrors before you start driving.

186. You should adjust your mirrors before you start driving.

✓ True.
False.

Properly adjusted mirrors improve visibility and help you monitor traffic around your vehicle.

Driver adjusting a mirror before setting off
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you smell fuel or see fuel leaking from your vehicle?

187. What should you do if you smell fuel or see fuel leaking from your vehicle?

Wash the leaking fuel away with water.
Ignore a small leak if the fuel level remains stable.
Drive slowly to the nearest fuel station.
✓ Stop, switch off the engine, avoid flames or sparks, and call for assistance.

Leaking fuel creates a serious fire risk. Keep people away, do not restart the engine, and arrange professional assistance.

Fuel leaking from a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you leave a broken-down vehicle when traffic is passing nearby?

188. How should you leave a broken-down vehicle when traffic is passing nearby?

✓ Use the door furthest from moving traffic when it is safe to do so.
Leave through the door nearest moving traffic.
Walk around the vehicle on the traffic side.
Get out immediately without checking for traffic.

Leaving through the side away from traffic reduces the risk of being struck by a passing vehicle.

Leaving a broken-down vehicle away from passing traffic
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if one of your tyres suddenly bursts while driving?

189. What should you do if one of your tyres suddenly bursts while driving?

Pump the brake pedal repeatedly.
Accelerate briefly to stabilise the vehicle.
✓ Hold the steering wheel firmly and slow down gradually.
Steer quickly toward the side of the road.

A tyre burst can make the vehicle unstable. Hold the wheel firmly, avoid sudden braking or steering, and slow down gradually.

Vehicle tyre damaged by a sudden blowout
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can air conditioning help demist the windows?

190. How can air conditioning help demist the windows?

By heating the rear window directly.
By opening the windows automatically.
By increasing air recirculation.
✓ By removing moisture from the air.

Using the air conditioning can help demist the windows because it removes moisture from the cabin air. Directing this drier air towards the windscreen can clear condensation more quickly.

Air-conditioning controls used to demist the windscreen
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is a microsleep especially dangerous while driving?

191. Why is a microsleep especially dangerous while driving?

It normally happens only when the vehicle is stopped.
It only affects your ability to hear.
It makes the steering feel heavier.
✓ You can lose awareness of the road for several seconds.

A microsleep is a brief, involuntary episode of sleep that can last for a few seconds. During that time, you may lose awareness of the road and travel a considerable distance without reacting to hazards.

Driver losing alertness at the wheel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which side do people drive on in Switzerland?

192. Which side do people drive on in Switzerland?

Left-hand side.
✓ Right-hand side.

Traffic drives on the right-hand side of the road in Switzerland.

Road traffic and the designated driving side
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid using air recirculation for too long in damp conditions?

193. Why should you avoid using air recirculation for too long in damp conditions?

It can overheat the engine.
It can switch off the air conditioning.
It can reduce tyre pressure.
✓ It can cause the windows to mist.

Using air recirculation for too long in damp conditions can allow moisture to build up inside the vehicle and increase window misting, especially when the air conditioning is not dehumidifying the air. Switching to fresh outside air can help clear condensation.

Air-recirculation setting and misted vehicle windows
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if animals are gathered beside a narrow rural road?

194. What should you do if animals are gathered beside a narrow rural road?

Maintain speed because the animals are beside the road.
Drive close to prevent them entering your lane.
✓ Reduce speed and pass only when there is enough space.
Use the opposite lane without checking.

Animals beside a narrow road may step into your path. Slow down and leave as much safe space as possible.

Animals gathered beside a narrow rural road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

195. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Engine overheating.
✓ Low engine coolant level.
Low washer fluid.
Low engine oil.

This symbol indicates that the engine coolant level is low. Check the coolant level when the engine is cool and refill it with the correct coolant if necessary.

Low coolant-level warning symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your windscreen becomes covered with mud or spray?

196. What should you do if your windscreen becomes covered with mud or spray?

Use the demister instead of the washers.
✓ Slow down and use the washers and wipers to restore clear vision.
Switch off the wipers until the windscreen dries.
Continue driving and wait for the spray to clear.

Clear visibility is essential. Slow down safely and use your washers and wipers until you can see the road clearly again.

Mud and spray obscuring a vehicle's windscreen
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can bridges be dangerous in strong winds?

197. Why can bridges be dangerous in strong winds?

Vehicles automatically accelerate on bridges.
Steering works less effectively above water.
✓ They are often exposed to stronger gusts.
Vehicles require more engine power on bridges.

Bridges are often open and exposed, allowing strong winds to affect vehicles more suddenly.

Exposed bridge in strong wind
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle breaks down on a busy road?

198. What should you do if your vehicle breaks down on a busy road?

Sound the horn continuously to warn other drivers.
Stay close to the vehicle so other drivers can see you.
Remain in the traffic lane even if you can move to safety.
✓ Move to a safe place, use hazard lights, and stay clear of traffic.

If your vehicle breaks down, make it visible and get yourself away from moving traffic. Safety comes before repairing the vehicle.

Broken-down vehicle beside a busy road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid blocking a junction?

199. Why should you avoid blocking a junction?

✓ Other traffic needs space to move safely.
Vehicles in a junction lose priority.
Traffic lights may stop working.
Junctions may only be entered at low speed.

Blocking a junction can prevent vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians from moving safely. Enter only when there is enough space to drive through and clear the junction.

Traffic blocking a road junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect when leaving a sheltered area during strong winds?

200. What should you expect when leaving a sheltered area during strong winds?

Your steering may become lighter.
The vehicle may automatically slow down.
Higher speed limits.
✓ A sudden gust may affect your vehicle.

Buildings, trees, and other obstacles can block wind. When you leave shelter, a sudden gust may push your vehicle.

Vehicle leaving a sheltered stretch of road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA