Swiss Category A Theory key terms

The legal entitlement to proceed first at a junction, crossing or narrowing where paths conflict. In Switzerland it is normally granted by signs, signals or the general rule that traffic from the right has priority.

The default priority rule at intersections without signs or signals: vehicles approaching from the right may go first. It applies only when no traffic light, sign or marking regulates the situation differently.

A sign or marking that grants priority, such as the yellow diamond main-road sign or the priority road plate. It loses effect where a traffic light or a police officer directs traffic.

A place where two or more roads meet or cross, including T-junctions. Special priority, turning and signalling rules apply, and overtaking is generally restricted in its area.

A continuous longitudinal road marking that must not be crossed or straddled, used to separate opposing flows or protect a hazardous section. Exceptions exist only for overtaking slow vehicles or cyclists where the law allows.

A broken or dashed centre line separating lanes or opposing traffic. It may be crossed when it is safe and legal, for example to overtake or to change lanes after signalling.

A triangular warning sign with a red border that announces a hazard ahead such as a bend, uneven road, crossing animals or roadworks. It calls for reduced speed and increased attention, not a specific speed limit.

A regulatory sign that imposes an obligation or prohibition, for example a speed limit, a no-entry sign or a mandatory direction. Unlike warning signs, it must be obeyed exactly as shown.

A prohibition on overtaking other motor vehicles, shown by a round sign with a red border or by road markings. It does not usually forbid passing two-wheelers, but safety and space still govern the manoeuvre.

The distance a motorcycle travels from the moment braking begins until it stops. It grows with the square of speed, so doubling speed roughly quadruples braking distance, and it lengthens on wet or loose surfaces.

The distance covered during the time between perceiving a hazard and actually applying the brakes. At 50 km/h a one-second reaction already covers about 14 metres, before any braking effect.

The total stopping distance, equal to reaction distance plus braking distance. It is the figure that matters when judging whether you can stop before an obstacle such as a pedestrian or a stopped vehicle.

The lean angle of a motorcycle in a bend, needed to balance centrifugal force. More lean means less grip available for braking, so speed should be set before the bend rather than corrected while leaning.

Directing your gaze through a bend toward the exit rather than at the road immediately ahead. Correct eye direction steers the motorcycle naturally and helps you spot hazards early.

The coordinated use of speed reduction before the bend, a suitable line, gentle countersteering and smooth throttle through the curve. Abrupt braking or throttle changes while leaned over reduce stability.

A deliberate push on the handlebar in the direction of the intended turn, which leans the motorcycle into the bend. It is the normal way to initiate a turn above walking pace.

An electronic system that prevents wheel lock under hard braking by modulating brake pressure. On a motorcycle it allows strong braking while retaining steering control, but it does not remove the need to brake correctly.

The grip between tyre and road, determined by rubber compound, tread, tyre pressure, surface texture and contamination. It is reduced by rain, gravel, painted markings and cold tyres.

The air pressure inside a tyre, which must match the manufacturer's specification for the load carried. Too low a pressure worsens handling and fuel use and can overheat the tyre; too high a pressure reduces the contact patch.

The depth of the tread grooves on a tyre. Swiss rules require a minimum of 1.6 mm for motorcycles, though considerably more is advisable for safe water displacement on wet roads.

The regular pre-ride check of tyres, brakes, lights, chain or belt, fluid levels and controls. A short systematic inspection before setting off prevents most technical breakdowns and is expected of every rider.

Cleaning, lubricating and correctly tensioning the drive chain. A neglected chain wears quickly, can jump off the sprocket and may lock the rear wheel, so it belongs to routine maintenance.

Helmet, gloves, jacket, trousers and boots designed to limit injury in a fall. In Switzerland a helmet is compulsory; the remaining protective clothing is strongly recommended because it prevents severe abrasion and impact injuries.

The legal duty for riders and passengers of motorcycles and mopeds to wear a fastened, approved helmet. Riding without one is an offence and greatly increases the risk of fatal head injury.

Being easy for others to see, achieved through light-coloured or reflective clothing, a clean visor, functioning lights and avoiding another vehicle's blind spot. It is a core element of defensive riding.

The area around a vehicle, especially a lorry or bus, that the driver cannot see in the mirrors. Riders should avoid lingering there and should pass decisively rather than travel alongside.

A quick look over the shoulder before changing lane, turning or pulling out, to check the blind spot not covered by mirrors. It is mandatory in practice before any lateral movement.

Moving from one lane to another. It requires mirror checks, a shoulder glance, indicating in good time and leaving adequate space, and the rider must not force other traffic to brake.

A maximum-effort stop in an emergency, using both brakes progressively and firmly while keeping the motorcycle upright and looking for an escape route. Practice on a safe surface builds the reflex.

The skill of reading the road ahead and anticipating what other users may do, such as a car door opening or a pedestrian stepping out. It underpins all defensive riding decisions.

Riding so that you always keep a margin for other people's mistakes: adequate following distance, early observation, visible positioning and a planned escape route. It reduces the chance of being involved in someone else's error.

The gap kept to the vehicle ahead. A common guideline is the two-second rule, extended in rain, darkness or when following large vehicles that block the view.

Loss of tyre contact with the road because a film of water builds up under the tread. Steering and braking become ineffective, so the rider should ease off the throttle and avoid sudden inputs until grip returns.

Immediate basic assistance at an accident scene: securing the site, alerting emergency services, then preserving breathing and circulation and preventing shock until professional help arrives.

The emergency call to 112 or 144 in Switzerland, giving location, number and type of casualties, hazards and any special circumstances. Staying on the line for questions is part of a correct call.

Warning other traffic and protecting the scene before giving aid, for example with hazard lights, a warning triangle and a high-visibility vest. This prevents secondary collisions and is the first duty of any helper.

Riding in a way that minimises fuel use and emissions: smooth acceleration, early upshifting, steady speed, correct tyre pressure and avoiding unnecessary idling or hard braking.

The noise a motorcycle produces, which is limited by type approval and influenced by exhaust system, engine speed and riding style. Excessive noise leads to complaints and road closures for motorcyclists.