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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 if oncoming headlights dazzle you at night?

301. What should you do if oncoming headlights dazzle you at night?

✓ Slow down and look toward the edge of your lane.
Look briefly at the headlights to judge their position.
Move closer to the centre of the road for a clearer view.
Maintain your speed until the vehicle has passed.

Bright headlights can reduce your vision. Avoid staring at them, slow down if needed, and use the road edge or lane markings to guide you safely.

Oncoming headlights dazzling a driver at night
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why is a larger following distance needed at motorway speeds?

302. Why is a larger following distance needed at motorway speeds?

It prevents the tyres from becoming too warm.
It makes the vehicle easier to steer.
It reduces the effect of crosswinds.
✓ You need more distance to react and stop safely.

At higher speeds, you travel farther during your reaction time and need more distance to brake. A larger gap gives you more time and space to stop safely.

Following distance between vehicles on a motorway
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if your vehicle becomes stuck on a railway crossing?

303. What should you do if your vehicle becomes stuck on a railway crossing?

Try to restart the vehicle until help arrives.
✓ Get everyone out, move away, and contact the emergency services.
Walk along the tracks to look for help.
Stay inside the vehicle and call for assistance.

Move everyone well away from the tracks. Use the crossing emergency telephone or displayed contact information where available, or contact the emergency services immediately.

Vehicle stranded on a railway crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if fog becomes so thick that you cannot see safely?

304. What should you do if fog becomes so thick that you cannot see safely?

✓ Slow down and stop in a safe location away from traffic if necessary.
Use main beam and keep driving.
Continue slowly by following the road markings.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely for guidance.

If visibility becomes dangerously poor, find a safe place to stop rather than continuing without being able to see clearly.

Dense fog obscuring the road ahead
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before crossing behind a bus or large vehicle?

305. What should you do before crossing behind a bus or large vehicle?

✓ Wait until you have a clear view of the road.
Stay close behind the vehicle while crossing.
Cross if the nearest traffic lane appears clear.
Cross as soon as the vehicle has stopped.

Large vehicles can block your view and hide you from drivers. Wait until you can clearly see the road before crossing.

Pedestrian preparing to cross behind a bus
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

306. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

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

This symbol indicates that the main beam headlights are switched on. Main beam illuminates the road farther ahead but can dazzle other road users, so it should be changed to dipped headlights when necessary.

Main-beam headlight symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do before releasing the parking brake on a slope?

307. What should you do before releasing the parking brake on a slope?

Select neutral and release all pedals.
✓ Make sure the vehicle is securely controlled before releasing it.
Press the accelerator fully.
Turn the steering wheel fully.

Before releasing the parking brake on a slope, make sure the vehicle cannot roll unexpectedly. Use the service brake or, when moving off in a manual vehicle, establish the clutch biting point and sufficient power before releasing the parking brake.

Preparing to release the parking brake on a slope
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What wording is commonly shown on give-way signs in Switzerland?

308. What wording is commonly shown on give-way signs in Switzerland?

GIVE WAY.
✓ No wording.
YIELD.
STOP.

Give-way signs in Switzerland normally use the inverted triangular symbol without wording.

Wording used on give-way and yield signs
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you use the brake pedal during emergency braking in a vehicle with ABS?

309. How should you use the brake pedal during emergency braking in a vehicle with ABS?

Pump it rapidly.
Use the parking brake instead.
✓ Press it firmly and keep it pressed.
Release it if the pedal vibrates.

During emergency braking with ABS, press the brake pedal firmly and keep it pressed. Pulsation or vibration through the pedal can be normal while ABS is operating, so do not pump or release the brake.

Firm brake-pedal pressure during emergency braking with ABS
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You do not need to look for cyclists when opening your car door.

310. You do not need to look for cyclists when opening your car door.

✓ False.
True.

You should always check for cyclists, motorcyclists, and other road users before opening a door.

Cyclist near the door of a parked car
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

311. What does this dashboard symbol indicate?

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

This symbol indicates that the rear fog lights are switched on. Rear fog lights make the vehicle more visible from behind in conditions of severely reduced visibility, but they can dazzle other road users when used unnecessarily.

Rear fog-light symbol on the dashboard
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the accelerator becomes stuck while you are driving?

312. What should you do if the accelerator becomes stuck while you are driving?

Press the accelerator harder to try to free it.
Apply the parking brake sharply while moving.
✓ Select neutral, brake firmly, and steer to a safe stopping place.
Keep driving and wait for the accelerator to release.

Selecting neutral disconnects engine power from the wheels. Brake firmly, maintain steering control, and switch off the engine after stopping safely.

Stuck accelerator pedal in a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How can the parking brake help when moving off uphill?

313. How can the parking brake help when moving off uphill?

It increases engine power.
✓ It can prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards.
It releases the clutch.
It selects a lower gear automatically.

When moving off uphill, the parking brake can hold the vehicle stationary while you prepare to move. Release it smoothly once the clutch reaches the biting point and sufficient power is applied.

Parking-brake control during an uphill start
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another vehicle is signalling to turn?

314. What should you do if another vehicle is signalling to turn?

Assume the driver has seen you.
Pull out because the vehicle will turn.
✓ Do not rely on the signal alone, proceed only when it is safe.
Use your horn and proceed immediately.

An indicator shows an intention, but it does not guarantee that the driver will turn. The signal may have been left on accidentally or the driver's intentions may change. Observe the vehicle's speed and position and proceed only when you are sure it is safe.

Another vehicle signalling to turn
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if another road user makes a mistake?

315. What should you do if another road user makes a mistake?

✓ Stay calm and avoid creating more danger.
Keep your course and expect them to correct their mistake.
Drive closer so they notice your presence.
Immediately overtake them to get past the situation.

Road users can make mistakes. Staying calm and reacting safely helps prevent crashes.

Driver responding to another road user's mistake
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the button on a seat-belt buckle used for?

316. What is the button on a seat-belt buckle used for?

To tighten the shoulder belt.
To adjust the belt height.
✓ To release the seat belt.
To lock the seat in position.

Pressing the button on the seat-belt buckle releases the latch so the belt can be unfastened. Keep the seat belt fastened whenever required while the vehicle is moving.

Release button on a seat-belt buckle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should a disabled vehicle be towed?

317. How should a disabled vehicle be towed?

✓ Use approved towing points and a method permitted by local rules.
By attaching a rope to the bumper.
Without checking the steering or brakes.
With nobody controlling the disabled vehicle.

Incorrect towing can damage the vehicle or cause loss of control. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and local rules, and use professional recovery when the correct procedure is uncertain.

Disabled vehicle being towed
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
You may park anywhere as long as you leave your hazard lights on.

318. You may park anywhere as long as you leave your hazard lights on.

True.
✓ False.

Hazard lights are used to warn other road users of a hazard or an unexpectedly stopped vehicle. They do not make illegal or unsafe parking acceptable.

Parked vehicle with hazard warning lights flashing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the vehicle consistently pulls to one side?

319. What should you do if the vehicle consistently pulls to one side?

✓ Check the tyre pressures and have the steering, alignment, and brakes inspected.
Keep driving and correct the steering as needed.
Increase speed to see if the vehicle straightens.
Reduce pressure in the tyre on the opposite side.

Persistent pulling can be caused by incorrect tyre pressure, wheel misalignment, suspension wear, or a braking fault. It should not be ignored.

Vehicle pulling to one side while travelling
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you approach slow-moving farm machinery?

320. What should you do if you approach slow-moving farm machinery?

Drive close behind until there is room to pass.
Use your horn so the driver moves aside.
Overtake even if the vehicle is signalling to turn.
✓ Keep a safe distance and overtake only when safe.

Farm machinery may be wide, slow, or turn unexpectedly. Keep distance and only overtake when you have a clear view and enough space.

Vehicle approaching slow-moving farm machinery
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why can swerving suddenly to avoid a small animal be dangerous?

321. Why can swerving suddenly to avoid a small animal be dangerous?

Swerving increases the vehicle's stopping distance.
Small animals have fast reaction times.
The tyres can be damaged by sudden steering.
✓ You may lose control or collide with another road user.

A sudden swerve can take you into another lane, off the road, or into nearby traffic.

Small animal in the road ahead of a vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should loose clothing be avoided when riding a motorcycle?

322. Why should loose clothing be avoided when riding a motorcycle?

It can make the brakes overheat.
It can prevent the engine from cooling properly.
It can reduce the pressure in the tyres.
✓ It can become caught in moving parts or distract the rider.

Loose clothing, straps or scarves can flap in the wind or become caught in moving parts such as the chain or wheel. Motorcycle clothing should fit securely and should not have loose items that could interfere with safe riding.

Motorcyclist wearing loose clothing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you leave extra space behind a motorcycle?

323. Why should you leave extra space behind a motorcycle?

✓ Motorcycles can slow down quickly and are more vulnerable.
Motorcyclists cannot see vehicles directly behind them.
Motorcycles always travel more slowly than cars.
Motorcycles need less space to stop than cars.

Motorcyclists are more exposed than car drivers. Extra following distance gives you more time to react safely.

Following distance behind a motorcycle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
It is safe to look at your phone briefly while driving.

324. It is safe to look at your phone briefly while driving.

True.
✓ False.

Using your phone while driving is distracting and dangerous, even for a very short moment.

Driver glancing at a phone while driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should the head restraint be adjusted correctly?

325. Why should the head restraint be adjusted correctly?

To improve rear visibility.
To make the seat belt tighter.
✓ To reduce the risk of neck injury in a collision.
To support the lower back.

A correctly adjusted head restraint helps support the head and can reduce the risk of neck injury, especially in a rear-end collision. The top of the restraint should normally be level with the top of the head.

Adjusting a vehicle seat's head restraint
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Are winter tyres generally required in Switzerland?

326. Are winter tyres generally required in Switzerland?

Yes, throughout the year.
Yes, throughout winter.
✓ No.

Winter tyres are not generally required for cars in Switzerland, although they may still be recommended or required in specific situations.

Winter tyres for cold-weather driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do when passing pedestrians on a shared path?

327. What should cyclists do when passing pedestrians on a shared path?

✓ Slow down, give warning, and leave enough space.
Pass closely if there is not enough room.
Use your bell and keep the same speed.
Pass quickly before they change direction.

Pedestrians may change direction unexpectedly. A warning and safe passing distance reduce the risk of a collision.

Cyclist passing pedestrians on a shared path
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Which road markings should you follow through roadworks?

328. Which road markings should you follow through roadworks?

Use whichever markings give you the shortest route.
Ignore markings and follow only the vehicle ahead.
Use the markings intended for construction vehicles.
✓ The temporary markings that show the current traffic route.

Temporary road markings may replace the normal lane layout during roadworks. Follow the markings and signs that currently guide traffic.

Temporary road markings through a roadworks area
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when driving in strong wind?

329. What should you do when driving in strong wind?

✓ Hold the steering wheel firmly and reduce speed if needed.
Open the windows to improve aerodynamics.
Increase speed so the vehicle is less affected by gusts.
Drive close behind large vehicles for protection from the wind.

Strong wind can affect vehicle control, especially near open areas, bridges, large vehicles, cyclists, and motorcyclists.

Driver controlling a vehicle in strong wind
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
How should you check the engine oil level?

330. How should you check the engine oil level?

Fill the engine until oil reaches the filler opening.
✓ Follow the manufacturer's instructions with the vehicle on level ground.
Add oil every time you refuel the vehicle.
Check it while the engine is running at high speed.

Use the dipstick or electronic oil-level system as described in the owner's manual. The engine is usually switched off, and the vehicle should be standing on level ground.

Checking the engine oil level
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Are bicycle helmets generally required in Switzerland?

331. Are bicycle helmets generally required in Switzerland?

Yes, for all cyclists.
✓ No.
Yes, for all adults.

Bicycle helmets are not generally required for all cyclists in Switzerland, although specific age or regional rules may apply.

Cyclist wearing a bicycle helmet
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when crossing a road with no marked crossing nearby?

332. What should you do when crossing a road with no marked crossing nearby?

Cross between parked vehicles if traffic seems quiet.
Cross near a bend if approaching traffic seems slow.
Cross diagonally to spend less time in each lane.
✓ Choose a place with a clear view in both directions.

If there is no marked crossing nearby, choose a safe place where you can clearly see approaching traffic.

Pedestrian preparing to cross a road without a marked crossing
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why must luggage or other objects not obstruct the driver's view?

333. Why must luggage or other objects not obstruct the driver's view?

✓ They can hide hazards and reduce the driver's ability to see safely.
They can make the steering heavier.
They can increase the vehicle's braking distance.
They can increase tyre pressure.

The driver must have a clear view of the road and surroundings. Luggage, decorations, or other objects that obstruct the windscreen, windows, or mirrors can hide pedestrians, cyclists, vehicles, signs, or other hazards.

Luggage obstructing the driver's view
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do when branches or debris are blowing onto the road?

334. What should you do when branches or debris are blowing onto the road?

✓ Slow down and avoid hazards safely.
Follow the vehicle ahead closely for protection.
Change lanes immediately without reducing speed.
Maintain speed and steer around them when necessary.

Wind can blow unexpected obstacles onto the road. Reduce speed and avoid them safely.

Wind-blown branches and debris on a road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why must you avoid smoking or open flames at a filling station?

335. Why must you avoid smoking or open flames at a filling station?

Heat can make the fuel nozzle stop automatically.
✓ Fuel vapours can ignite and cause a fire.
Smoke can interfere with the fuel gauge.
Open flames can reduce the fuel's quality.

Petrol and other fuels can produce flammable vapours. Smoking, open flames, sparks, or other ignition sources can ignite these vapours and cause a serious fire. Follow all filling-station safety rules while refuelling.

No-smoking warning at a filling station
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should cyclists avoid riding in a large vehicle's blind spot?

336. Why should cyclists avoid riding in a large vehicle's blind spot?

Cyclists must always stay behind large vehicles.
Blind spots matter only when a vehicle is reversing.
✓ The driver may not be able to see them.
Large vehicles always have priority when turning.

Buses and trucks have large areas where the driver cannot see cyclists, especially beside the vehicle and near turns.

Cyclist in a large vehicle's blind spot
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does a green traffic light mean?

337. What does a green traffic light mean?

You may enter even if traffic is blocking the junction.
✓ You may proceed if it is safe.
You must proceed as soon as the light turns green.
You may turn in any direction without checking the signs.

A green light allows you to continue, but you must still watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users.

Green traffic light at a junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Who generally has priority at an uncontrolled intersection in Switzerland?

338. Who generally has priority at an uncontrolled intersection in Switzerland?

Traffic approaching from the left.
The largest vehicle.
✓ Traffic approaching from the right.
The vehicle travelling fastest.

At an uncontrolled intersection in Switzerland, you generally give way to traffic approaching from the right.

Vehicles approaching an uncontrolled junction from different directions
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you expect when lanes become narrower in roadworks?

339. What should you expect when lanes become narrower in roadworks?

✓ Less space between your vehicle, barriers, and other traffic.
All vehicles must drive in the centre of the lane.
The speed limit automatically increases.
Temporary lane markings no longer need to be followed.

Narrow lanes leave less room for error. Keep a steady position, avoid drifting toward barriers or nearby vehicles, and reduce speed if necessary.

Narrow traffic lanes through roadworks
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid braking hard on a curve?

340. Why should you avoid braking hard on a curve?

It can make the steering feel heavier.
It can increase tyre pressure during the turn.
✓ It can reduce control and increase the risk of skidding.
It can make the tyres grip the road more strongly.

Hard braking on a curve can upset the vehicle's balance and reduce grip. Slow down before the curve and steer smoothly.

Vehicle braking while negotiating a bend
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why should you avoid using a phone while driving?

341. Why should you avoid using a phone while driving?

Because it can cause road rage.
Because it can make your reactions faster.
Because it can disable the cruise control system.
✓ Because it distracts you from the road.

Using a phone while driving reduces attention, reaction time, and control of the vehicle. A hands-free system may reduce the need to handle the phone, but the conversation itself can still be distracting.

Phone distracting a driver from the road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Does the priority-to-the-right rule apply in Switzerland?

342. Does the priority-to-the-right rule apply in Switzerland?

✓ Yes.
No.

In Switzerland, the priority-to-the-right rule generally applies at uncontrolled intersections.

Vehicle approaching a junction from the right
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Why does higher speed increase the risk of aquaplaning?

343. Why does higher speed increase the risk of aquaplaning?

The vehicle becomes heavier as speed increases.
The suspension becomes less effective at high speed.
The brakes cannot remove water from the tyres.
✓ The tyres have less time to clear water from the road surface.

At higher speeds, the tyres may not disperse water effectively, making it easier for the vehicle to lose contact with the road.

Vehicle speed and aquaplaning on a wet road
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
Who normally has priority at roundabouts in Switzerland?

344. Who normally has priority at roundabouts in Switzerland?

✓ Traffic already on the roundabout.
Traffic entering the roundabout.

In Switzerland, traffic entering a roundabout normally gives way to traffic already circulating.

Vehicles approaching and circulating on a roundabout
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if you realise you have put the wrong fuel in your vehicle?

345. What should you do if you realise you have put the wrong fuel in your vehicle?

✓ Do not start the engine, and seek assistance.
Rev the engine briefly to mix the fuels.
Start the engine and drive slowly to use the fuel.
Add the correct fuel and continue driving.

If you have used the wrong fuel, do not start the engine. Starting it can circulate the incorrect fuel and cause further damage. If possible, avoid switching on the ignition and seek appropriate roadside or workshop assistance.

Fuel nozzle and the risk of misfuelling
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

346. What does this vehicle-control symbol indicate?

✓ Horn.
Parking assistance.
Cruise control.
Hazard warning lights.

This symbol indicates the horn control. The horn is used to warn other road users of your presence when necessary.

Vehicle horn control and symbol
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should cyclists do when approaching a junction?

347. What should cyclists do when approaching a junction?

Watch only the traffic directly ahead of you.
✓ Reduce speed, observe carefully, and be ready to stop.
Maintain your speed if no traffic is visible.
Rely on other road users to give way to you.

Junctions create conflict points between road users. Slowing down gives you more time to see hazards and react safely.

Cyclist approaching a road junction
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should a motorcyclist do when approaching loose gravel?

348. What should a motorcyclist do when approaching loose gravel?

Accelerate sharply to cross it quickly.
Lean the motorcycle more than usual.
Turn suddenly to avoid every loose stone.
✓ Reduce speed before reaching it and use smooth controls.

Loose gravel can significantly reduce tyre grip. Reduce speed before reaching it, keep the motorcycle as upright as practical, and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering while crossing the loose surface.

Motorcyclist approaching loose gravel
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do with the clutch when bringing a manual vehicle to a stop?

349. What should you do with the clutch when bringing a manual vehicle to a stop?

Press it before using the brake pedal.
✓ Press it before the engine begins to stall.
Keep it released until after the vehicle stops.
Pump it repeatedly while braking.

When stopping a manual vehicle, brake normally and press the clutch pedal before the engine speed becomes too low and the engine stalls. Avoid pressing the clutch unnecessarily early, as this reduces engine braking.

Clutch-pedal operation when stopping a manual vehicle
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What should you do if the service brakes fail while driving?

350. What should you do if the service brakes fail while driving?

✓ Reduce speed using other available braking methods and stop safely.
Shift into neutral and let the vehicle coast to a stop.
Switch off the engine immediately while moving.
Continue slowly until the brakes begin working again.

Remain calm, warn other road users, and use other available braking methods to reduce speed. This may include engine braking or a lower gear, and careful use of the parking or emergency brake according to the vehicle's design. Steer toward the safest available stopping area.

Vehicle braking-system failure while driving
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA