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

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

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

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

152. 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
Which side do people drive on in Switzerland?

153. Which side do people drive on in Switzerland?

✓ Right-hand side.
Left-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
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

154. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Main beam.
Front fog lights.
Rear fog lights.
✓ Sidelights.

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
What should you check before starting a bicycle journey?

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

Only the tyres and chain.
✓ The brakes, tyres, lights, and steering.
The lights, but not the steering or brakes.
Only the brakes if the journey is short.

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

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

Wind increases the pressure in bicycle tyres.
Cyclists always ride more slowly in strong winds.
✓ They may be blown sideways unexpectedly.
Strong wind makes bicycle brakes less effective.

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 a child runs onto the road ahead?

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

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

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
How can air conditioning help demist the windows?

158. How can air conditioning help demist the windows?

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

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?

159. Why is a microsleep especially dangerous while driving?

✓ You can lose awareness of the road for several seconds.
It only affects your ability to hear.
It usually makes you drive more slowly.
It normally happens only when the vehicle is stopped.

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
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

160. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

Central door locking.
Child safety lock.
✓ Window lock.
Electric window control.

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
What should you do before crossing the road?

161. What should you do before crossing the road?

Look only where traffic normally comes from.
✓ Look for traffic in all directions.
Follow another pedestrian without checking yourself.
Cross if the nearest vehicle is slowing down.

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

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

Switch off the wipers until the windscreen dries.
Use the demister instead of the washers.
Increase speed so the airflow clears the windscreen.
✓ Slow down and use the washers and wipers to restore clear vision.

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
How should cyclists ride when travelling in a group?

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

Ride side by side even when traffic cannot pass safely.
Keep the same speed even when gaps become unsafe.
Follow the cyclist ahead without checking traffic yourself.
✓ Predictably, with safe gaps and clear communication.

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

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

✓ To reduce the risk of serious head injury in a collision.
To make the motorcycle easier to balance.
To reduce fuel consumption at higher speeds.
To improve the rider's hearing in traffic.

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

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

It must always stop before reaching the top.
✓ It may slow down suddenly or roll backward.
Its tyres may warm up more quickly.
Its engine may become louder on the hill.

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
What makes up the total stopping distance of a vehicle?

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

✓ Reaction distance and braking distance.
Tyre distance and braking distance.
Braking distance and overtaking distance.
Reaction distance and following 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 when approaching stationary or slow-moving traffic on a motorway?

167. 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 does the resume function of cruise control normally do?

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

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

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
Why can bridges be dangerous in strong winds?

169. Why can bridges be dangerous in strong winds?

Steering works less effectively above water.
Bridge lighting makes it harder to judge speed.
Vehicles automatically accelerate on bridges.
✓ They are often exposed to stronger gusts.

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
Which distance unit is used on road signs in Switzerland?

170. 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
What should you expect when leaving a sheltered area during strong winds?

171. 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
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

172. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

Low tyre pressure.
Engine overheating.
✓ Low engine coolant level.
Low washer fluid.

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 does this dashboard symbol indicate?

173. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Parking assistance.
Adaptive cruise control.
Automatic emergency braking.
Lane-departure warning.

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 should you do if passengers are distracting you while driving?

174. 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.
Ignore the traffic until the distraction has passed.
Turn around briefly so you can speak to them.

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
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

175. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

✓ Direction indicators.
Dipped headlights.
Main beam.
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 should you do if you smell fuel or see fuel leaking from your vehicle?

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

✓ Stop, switch off the engine, avoid flames or sparks, and call for assistance.
Wash the leaking fuel away with water.
Ignore a small leak if the fuel level remains stable.
Restart the engine to check whether the leak continues.

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 brake on a slippery road?

177. How should you brake on a slippery road?

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

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

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

To select reverse gear.
To apply the service brakes.
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
How can a roof load affect vehicle handling?

179. How can a roof load affect vehicle handling?

It affects only fuel consumption, not handling.
It reduces the effect of strong crosswinds.
It lowers the vehicle's centre of gravity.
✓ It can raise the centre of gravity and reduce stability.

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 if your main beam could dazzle another driver?

180. 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 unnecessary engine idling be avoided?

181. Why should unnecessary engine idling be avoided?

It makes the tyres lose pressure.
It prevents the battery from charging.
✓ It uses fuel without moving the vehicle.
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
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

182. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Steering-wheel adjustment.
Cruise control.
Exterior mirror adjustment.
Seat 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
You should signal before turning or changing lanes.

183. 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
Why should you never leave a petrol or diesel engine running in an enclosed space?

184. 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
Why should you be careful when driving beside a bus at a stop?

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

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

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 animals are gathered beside a narrow rural road?

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

Drive close to prevent them entering your lane.
✓ Reduce speed and pass only when there is enough space.
Maintain speed because the animals are beside the road.
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 should cyclists do when cycling downhill?

187. What should cyclists do when cycling downhill?

Let the bicycle gain speed while the road ahead is clear.
✓ Control your speed and keep both hands ready to brake.
Look only at the road directly in front of you.
Brake as late as possible before bends.

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
You should adjust your mirrors before you start driving.

188. 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
Why should you leave extra space when passing road workers?

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

To avoid damaging temporary road markings.
✓ They may be working close to moving traffic.
Road workers always have priority over passing traffic.
Road workers are protected by the construction barriers.

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
Are headlights required during the day in Switzerland?

190. 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
What can happen if you use the brakes continuously on a long descent?

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

The engine may automatically slow the vehicle.
The brakes will automatically cool while being used.
Nothing, if the brake fluid level is correct.
✓ The brakes may overheat and become less effective.

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

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

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.
Stay close to the vehicle so other drivers can see you.
Stand beside the vehicle while waiting for help.

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 is riding a bicycle after drinking alcohol dangerous?

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

Alcohol affects driving more than cycling.
✓ Alcohol can reduce your balance, coordination, judgement, and reaction time.
A helmet protects you from alcohol-related risks.
A small amount of alcohol improves balance.

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

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

Once a driver sees you, no further checks are needed.
✓ To reduce the risk of stepping into their path.
Eye contact means the driver must stop for you.
A driver who sees you can always stop in time.

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
What should you do after fitting a temporary spare wheel?

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

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

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

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

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

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
Why should you avoid blocking a junction?

197. Why should you avoid blocking a junction?

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

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
Why should heavy items be placed low and evenly distributed?

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

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

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 should you do when driving on icy roads?

199. 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
How should you leave a broken-down vehicle when traffic is passing nearby?

200. 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.
Stand beside the vehicle before moving away.
Walk around the vehicle on the traffic side.
Leave through the door nearest moving 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