Car / Motorcycle

Traffic rules are important for motorists in Switzerland. Fines are high compared to other countries. A serious violation of traffic rules can result in a driver's licence being withdrawn.
Several important rules:

• Maximum speed in urban areas: 50 km/h; in rural areas: 80 km/h; on main roads: 100 km/h; on highways: 120 km/h
• Overtaking on the right is illegal on highways; passing on the right is permitted with the necessary caution if a column of traffic has formed on the left or centre lane.
• Lights must also be on in daylight.
• All passengers must wear a seatbelt.
• Children must use in a child’s seat (under age 12 or height of 150 cm).
• Talking on the phone while driving is only allowed via a hands-free system.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is punishable (limit 0.5 mg/ml).
• Pedestrians at pedestrian crossings always have the right of way (unless there is a traffic light).

Roads are funded by the confederation, cantons, and communities. Using roads is free of charge. Highways are the exception: Persons wishing to use the highway must purchase a toll sticker (Vignette) every year. The toll sticker is to be applied to the windshield. Toll stickers are available at service stations, post offices, and traffic offices.

Motor vehicles that are in use must be insured in Switzerland. Motor vehicle liability insurance (Motorfahrzeug-Haftpflichtversicherung) is offered by many private insurance companies. Insurance pays for damages to objects and persons which were caused by a motor vehicle. Damages to persons' own cars are covered by optional comprehensive insurance (Kaskoversicherung). Caution: insurance may not cover damages caused by gross negligence (e.g. driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs). Motor vehicle liability insurance is not included in private liability insurance.

People wishing to permanently import a vehicle to Switzerland must register and declare it at the customs office. The vehicle must also be technically inspected. Motor vehicle liability insurance, a driver's licence, and a Swiss licence plate are necessary. Further information is provided by the Basel-Stadt vehicle inspection department (Motorfahrzeugkontrolle).

Carsharing is when multiple people share one or more cars together. The vehicles of a carsharing organisation are usually available at dedicated parking spaces and are booked in advance online or using an app. The locations are typically found at important hubs of public transport (e.g. train stations, tram stations and terminal bus stops). In contrast to car rental, it is also possible to use a vehicle for short periods of time (e.g. by the hour).