Exploring Limitations: Actions Prohibited When Caught in Traffic Congestion on Swiss Highways
In the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland, common temptations to avoid during heavy traffic include speeding, illegal parking, and reckless driving, as these can lead to strict penalties.
Key traffic laws and penalties to note are:
- Speeding: Speed limits are strictly enforced with fines based on the severity of the offense and calculated on a daily income basis for large violations. For example, exceeding the speed limit by 20 km/h can incur a minimum fine of €190, while exceeding by over 50 km/h leads to fines based on daily income starting at €60 per day[1][3]. Severe speeding on motorways or in low-speed zones (e.g., exceeding 80 km/h on a motorway or 40 km/h in a 30 km/h zone) can lead to imprisonment for at least one year[1][3].
- Parking violations: Parking fines range from CHF 40 to CHF 120, and illegal parking or exceeding the allowed time can result in your vehicle being towed[5].
- Cross-border enforcement: Fines for serious traffic violations committed in Switzerland are enforced across borders with countries like Germany, ensuring drivers cannot evade penalties easily[1][3].
In heavy traffic, avoid risky behaviors such as aggressive speeding, illegal overtaking, or parking violations, as Swiss authorities impose heavy fines and even imprisonment for serious offenses. Enforcement methods include fixed cameras, mobile units, and unmarked police vehicles.
During long waits, police are generally more tolerant, as long as you stay close to your vehicle and do not walk around[2]. However, using the hard-shoulder lane during heavy congestion is considered a traffic offence[4]. Additionally, making a U-turn or putting your car in reverse on a congested road is banned for safety reasons. Motorcyclists are not allowed to pass between lines of cars when traffic is heavy.
It is important to be aware of the dos and don'ts of driving in Switzerland, especially when navigating the notorious traffic jams on the Gotthard tunnel. On August 1st, an 11-km-long traffic jam formed at the northern entrance to the Gotthard, with motorists having to wait for two hours to cross the tunnel[6]. The Gotthard tunnel is a known location for traffic jams during holidays and regular days.
Remember, safety and adherence to traffic laws are crucial in Switzerland. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth journey through the beautiful Swiss landscapes, even during heavy traffic conditions.
[1] https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/swiss-motorway-speed-limits-explained/45467882 [2] https://www.thelocal.ch/20180709/swiss-police-tolerate-walking-on-motorways-during-traffic-jams [3] https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/swiss-motorway-speed-limits-explained/45467882 [4] https://www.thelocal.ch/20180709/swiss-police-tolerate-walking-on-motorways-during-traffic-jams [5] https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/parking-fines-in-switzerland-how-much-do-they-cost/45398386 [6] https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/11-kilometre-traffic-jam-on-swiss-motorway/45469768
In Switzerland, it's crucial to avoid risky driving behaviors such as aggressive speeding, illegal overtaking, or parking violations, as these can lead to hefty fines or imprisonment in heavy traffic. When navigating the notorious traffic jams, it's essential to remember that using the hard-shoulder lane during congestion is considered a traffic offense.
In line with the lifestyle and regulations in Switzerland, it's advisable to maintain a responsible driving approach, even when owning luxury cars, given the stringent traffic laws and penalties enforced across the country, particularly in areas like the Gotthard tunnel where traffic jams are common.
