Lane Discipline Road Position
- 1/25When driving on multi-lane roads or motorways in Switzerland
The right lane is the default lane for regular driving. Use left lanes only for overtaking, then return to the right. Staying left unnecessarily is a traffic offense.
When overtaking another vehicle on a motorway
Always pass on the left unless traffic is congested. Overtaking on the right unless in queues is illegal and dangerous.
When traffic is flowing in slow or congested conditions
Repeated lane changing slows traffic and increases risk of accidents. The zipper method applies when two lanes merge into one.
Approaching a roundabout in Switzerland requires
Use posted signs or road markings before entering to select your lane. Changing lanes inside the roundabout is discouraged and can confuse other drivers.
On narrow roads or curves without center lines
Especially in the Alps or countryside, hugging the right edge improves safety. Use your horn at blind bends and yield if necessary.
In tunnels with marked lanes
Avoid overtaking and lane changes. Maintain a safe following distance usually 50m or 2 chevron markers. Use low beams and avoid distractions.
When turning right at an intersection
This reduces conflict with cyclists or pedestrians. Signal clearly and avoid swinging wide, especially in city zones.
When turning left at an intersection with two-way traffic
Position correctly to allow vehicles behind to pass on the right. Yield to oncoming traffic unless a green arrow permits the turn.
Before changing lanes on a motorway or main road
Shoulder checks head turns are mandatory. Mirrors alone do not eliminate blind spots. Signal early and avoid sudden maneuvers.
When driving near cyclists or motorcyclists
Keep at least 1.5 meters distance when overtaking. Reduce speed and never squeeze them between your car and curb or other vehicles.
In residential streets with parked cars on one side
Yield if oncoming traffic is approaching. Move cautiously between parked cars, watching for pedestrians or doors opening.
When entering a highway via an acceleration lane
Use the full length of the lane to reach the traffic speed. Do not stop unless absolutely necessary. Yield to vehicles already on the highway.
While descending narrow alpine roads with sharp turns
Use engine braking to control speed. Stay in your lane to avoid dangerous head-on situations, especially on blind curves.
At intersections with directional arrows
Arrows painted on the road are legally binding. Do not switch lanes once within the intersection or approach zone unless absolutely necessary.
When traveling on tram lines shared with vehicles
Trams cannot swerve. Be alert for braking trams or pedestrian crossings near tracks. Give priority when signs indicate.
On roads without center markings or lines
Drive slower and watch for oncoming traffic. Especially important at night or in poor visibility. Yield early if in doubt.
When overtaking cyclists or pedestrians on narrow roads
If there’s no oncoming traffic and visibility is clear, you may briefly cross the center to ensure safe passing distance.
On roads with solid white lane lines
Solid white lines prohibit lane changes to protect traffic flow and safety. Lane changes are allowed again when the line becomes dashed.
Approaching an intersection in heavy traffic
Only enter if you can fully clear the intersection. Blocking causes gridlock and may result in fines or enforcement actions.
When lane markings direct you into different exit paths
Check signs 200–500 meters before the exit. Switching lanes too late is dangerous and may cut off other drivers.
When emergency vehicles are approaching in traffic
Move right in the right lane, and left in the left lane to form a central corridor. This is a legal requirement in Switzerland.
When exiting a motorway or expressway
Use posted signs and lane indicators. Reduce speed in the deceleration lane; do not slow down on the main carriageway.
On roads with reversible lanes marked with overhead signals
Only enter the lane if a green arrow is shown above. Red X means closed-entry is prohibited. These are common in tunnels or busy urban areas.
When stopping at traffic lights with separate lanes for turning and straight travel
Respect the signal assigned to your lane e.g. green arrow, red circle. Changing lanes at the light confuses others and violates traffic rules.
In urban areas with tram tracks in the center
Do not park or stop on tram lines. Yield when turning across tracks. Always check for approaching trams before crossing.