Use of Horns and Lights

When driving through tunnels or low visibility areas

Swiss law requires dipped headlights at all times in tunnels or poor visibility. High beams are prohibited in tunnels.

On Swiss roads during daylight hours

Since 2014, all vehicles must use DRLs or dipped headlights during the day to enhance visibility, especially on rural roads.

Using your horn in urban areas

Horns should be used only to prevent accidents, not to express frustration or greet others. Noise control is strictly enforced.

When warning another driver of danger

A short horn blast is acceptable to alert others of immediate hazards, such as an unseen pedestrian or wrong-way driver.

In mountain driving with blind curves

Especially on narrow alpine roads without visibility, drivers are expected to honk to warn oncoming vehicles.

When overtaking on rural roads without clear visibility

A short horn alert can be used to warn the vehicle being overtaken, particularly on narrow or curving roads.

Flashing headlights during the day

A quick flash may be used to warn of danger or yield to another vehicle, but not to express aggression.

Driving at night in areas without street lighting

High beams may be used when no oncoming traffic is present but must be dimmed in time to avoid dazzling other drivers.

Using high beams in foggy or snowy conditions

High beams reflect off fog or snow, reducing visibility. Use fog lights and dipped beams instead.

When following another vehicle at night

To avoid dazzling the driver ahead, switch to dipped beams. Maintain a safe following distance.

Approaching pedestrians or cyclists at night

High beams can blind vulnerable road users. Switch to low beams early and pass with caution.

When parked on an unlit road at night

Parked vehicles must be visible in the dark. Turn on position or parking lights if there is no street lighting.

Switching on hazard warning lights

Use hazard lights to alert others of danger, traffic jams, or vehicle malfunctions. Do not use while driving.

Driving in heavy rain, snow, or fog during the day

Daytime running lights are not sufficient. Use low beam headlights or fog lights as needed to stay visible.

When approaching a railway crossing with flashing red lights

Sound and visual alerts are managed by crossing systems. Drivers must stop; additional honking or flashing is unnecessary and distracting.

Overtaking a cyclist on a narrow rural road

A brief horn alert may be used to inform cyclists of your presence. Do not startle them or pass aggressively.

Using the horn in residential areas at night

Horn use is forbidden from 10 PM to 6 AM unless in emergencies. Noise complaints can lead to penalties.

When encountering animals on or near the road

Honking may startle animals and create unpredictable reactions. Slow down and pass quietly.

If another driver fails to notice a green light

A gentle horn tap is acceptable to alert distracted drivers after lights turn green. Avoid repeated honking.

When exiting a private driveway onto a sidewalk

Sounding the horn is discouraged. Use careful observation and lights to indicate presence.

Using rear fog lights in clear weather

Rear fog lights are for thick fog or snow only. Using them in clear conditions can dazzle other drivers and is a fineable offense.

When entering foggy tunnels

Some tunnels permit fog light use during low visibility. Check signage and local rules.

At pedestrian crossings at night

Ensure pedestrians are visible without dazzling them. Use caution and reduce speed.

When your car breaks down on a motorway

Turn on hazard warning lights, pull over to the emergency lane, and place a warning triangle at least 100 meters behind the car.

When signaling your intent to overtake at night

A brief flash may warn the vehicle ahead. Avoid repeated flashing or full beam use.