Traffic Enforcement Penalties
- 1/24When you exceed the posted speed limit
Switzerland enforces strict speed limits. Penalties vary by how much the limit is exceeded, ranging from CHF 40 fines to criminal charges and license revocation.
If caught using a hand-held mobile phone while driving
The standard fine is CHF 100, but repeated offenses can lead to higher penalties or even a driving ban.
Running a red traffic light in Switzerland
Red light violations are considered serious. They incur heavy fines from CHF 250 and may result in demerit points or license suspension.
When caught drink driving over the legal limit
The legal BAC limit is 0.5% for new drivers. Offenders face license suspension, fines, and even jail time depending on severity.
Refusing to take a breathalyzer or blood test
Refusal is seen as non-cooperation and leads to automatic penalties including high fines and license revocation.
Failing to yield at a pedestrian crossing
Endangering pedestrians results in fines CHF 140–200+ and possibly demerit points depending on the situation.
Not wearing a seatbelt while driving
The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is CHF 60. This rule applies to all passengers as well.
Using a vehicle without proper registration or insurance
Driving an unregistered or uninsured vehicle can result in confiscation, heavy fines, and court action.
Parking in restricted or unauthorized areas
Parking violations incur standard fines from CHF 40 to CHF 120. Repeated offenses may lead to vehicle towing.
Accumulating too many traffic violation points
Switzerland uses a penalty points system. Accumulating multiple infractions within a short time may cause temporary or permanent license loss.
Leaving the scene of an accident without reporting
Hit-and-run behavior is severely punished under Swiss law, including prison terms and license revocation.
Failure to stop at a stop sign or yield sign
Ignoring signs can lead to fines of CHF 100–200 and adds to your record as a traffic violation.
Driving in bus or bike-only lanes
Unauthorized use of reserved lanes leads to penalties. Repeat violations can result in additional action.
Driving without a valid license or expired permit
This is treated as a criminal offense, leading to fines, possible arrest, and banning from driving.
Using fog lights when conditions are clear
Fog lights must be used only in poor visibility. Misuse may result in CHF 40 fines.
Tampering with license plates or obscuring them
This act is seen as an attempt to evade enforcement and results in criminal prosecution and license loss.
Driving a vehicle with major defects or poor maintenance
Police may confiscate or ban the use of a vehicle deemed unsafe for the road.
Speeding in construction or school zones
These are highly sensitive zones. Offenders face higher penalties and possible suspension even for lower-level speeding.
Blocking emergency lanes or misusing them
Emergency lanes must be kept clear. Misuse is considered a major offense.
Ignoring police instructions or failing to stop
This leads to prosecution, license revocation, and potential imprisonment.
False statements during a police check
Dishonesty in road enforcement checks can result in criminal records and fines.
Using radar detectors or jamming devices
These devices are banned. Possession or use results in confiscation and fines.
Failure to report a medical condition affecting driving
Drivers are responsible for declaring fitness to drive. Medical issues must be disclosed to authorities.
Foreign drivers violating Swiss traffic laws
Foreigners receive fines and may be barred from driving in Switzerland. Offenses are enforced regardless of nationality.