Swiss Theory B flashcards
Swiss Theory B · Build recall with a focused review session.
32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.
- Priority from the right
- Where no sign or marking says otherwise, you must yield to vehicles approaching from your right at a junction. This is the default Swiss priority rule.
- Yellow diamond sign
- A yellow diamond with a white border marks a priority road. You may proceed first at junctions until a sign with a black diagonal bar ends that priority.
- Roundabout entry rule
- At a roundabout marked with a yield sign or broken line, traffic already circulating has priority. You give way to vehicles coming from your left.
- General built-up speed limit
- Inside built-up areas the general maximum speed for cars is 50 km/h, unless a sign shows a different value. Lower limits often apply near schools.
- General rural speed limit
- Outside built-up areas the general maximum for cars is 80 km/h. Signs may reduce this on bends, in villages or near hazards.
- Motorway speed limit
- The general maximum on Swiss motorways is 120 km/h. Many sections are signed 100 km/h or lower for noise or safety reasons.
- Two-second rule
- Keep at least two seconds behind the vehicle ahead on dry roads. In rain, snow or darkness, double the gap to four seconds.
- Reaction distance formula
- Reaction distance in metres is roughly the speed in km/h divided by ten, then multiplied by three. At 60 km/h that is about 18 metres.
- Braking distance and speed
- Braking distance grows with the square of speed. Doubling speed roughly quadruples the braking distance, so higher speed sharply increases risk.
- Solid white line
- A continuous white line may not be crossed or straddled. A broken line may be crossed when it is safe and does not hinder other traffic.
- Stop sign obligation
- At a stop sign you must come to a complete standstill at the stop line, even if the road appears clear. Then give way before moving off.
- Tram priority
- Trams generally have priority over other vehicles. Do not block tram tracks, and give way when a tram is approaching or passengers are boarding.
- Leaving a property
- When entering a public road from a car park, petrol station or private property, you must give way to all traffic already on that road.
- Minimum tyre tread depth
- Swiss law requires at least 1.6 mm tread depth in the main grooves of car tyres. Winter tyres need about 4 mm to grip properly on snow.
- Winter tyre requirement
- When wintry conditions such as snow, slush or ice prevail, the vehicle must be fitted with winter tyres (M+S or three-peak symbol).
- Tyre pressure check
- Check tyre pressure when tyres are cold, at least monthly and before long trips. Under-inflation increases wear, fuel use and blowout risk.
- Warning triangle
- A warning triangle is mandatory equipment in Swiss cars. Place it behind the vehicle to warn traffic, especially on motorways and at blind spots.
- Alcohol limit for novices
- Drivers in their first three years of holding a licence, and professional drivers, are subject to a 0.1 per mille blood-alcohol limit.
- Standard alcohol limit
- The general blood-alcohol limit is 0.5 per mille, equivalent to 0.25 mg/L in breath. Above this, driving is an offence.
- Medication and driving
- Some medicines, such as sedatives, strong painkillers and certain antihistamines, impair driving. Read the leaflet and ask a pharmacist before driving.
- Compulsory insurance
- Motor third-party liability insurance is compulsory in Switzerland. Comprehensive casco cover is optional but often chosen for newer vehicles.
- Vehicle registration document
- The Fahrzeugausweis identifies the vehicle and its holder and must be carried when driving. Changes of owner or address must be reported.
- Periodic technical inspection
- Vehicles must pass the periodic technical inspection (MFK) at canton-set intervals. A valid inspection confirms roadworthiness and legal operation.
- Motorway joining procedure
- Use the acceleration lane to match motorway speed, then merge. Traffic already on the motorway has priority over vehicles joining.
- Tunnel lighting rule
- Dipped headlights must be switched on in tunnels, even in daylight. Keep a safe distance and obey tunnel signals and speed limits.
- Tunnel fire response
- Stop the engine, leave the key in the ignition, and follow emergency exit signs on foot. Do not turn around or block escape routes.
- Rear fog light use
- Rear fog lights may be used only when visibility is seriously reduced, generally below 50 metres. Misuse dazzles following drivers.
- Motorway breakdown steps
- Move to the hard shoulder, switch on hazard lights, put on a high-visibility vest, place the warning triangle and wait behind the barrier.
- Eco-driving gear changes
- Shift up early, around 2,000 rpm in a petrol car, and keep a steady speed. Anticipating traffic reduces braking and fuel consumption.
- Engine idling
- When stationary for more than about 20 seconds, switch off the engine where legal. Idling wastes fuel and adds unnecessary emissions.
- Load security
- Loads must be distributed low and centrally and secured against shifting. Stay within permitted total weight and axle loads for safe handling.
- Pedestrian crossing duty
- You must give way to pedestrians who show intent to cross at a zebra crossing. Stopping on the crossing itself is prohibited.