Speeding

In Switzerland, road accidents are often caused by drivers speeding excessively. While speeding may seem harmless at first, it can have dramatic repercussions and increase the severity of accidents. This text will focus on Swiss laws regulating speed on the roads, the penalties applicable in case of an offense, as well as the legal and financial consequences that drivers may face in case of speeding.

Speed limits in Switzerland

Adhering to speed limits is crucial for ensuring safety on Swiss roads. Road accidents caused by excessive speed are one of the main causes of mortality on the country’s roads. Therefore, it is imperative to be vigilant and respect the speed limits in force.
Swiss speed limits are clearly established based on different criteria such as the type of road, traffic conditions, and geographic areas. It is important for drivers to pay attention to signage indicating applicable speed limits. In Switzerland, the maximum allowed speeds are as follows:

• 120 km/h on motorways;
• 100 km/h on semi-motorways;
• 80 km/h outside built-up areas;
• 50 km/h in built-up areas;
• 30 km/h in 30 km/h zones;
• 20 km/h in shared zones.

In Switzerland, motorways are equipped with a speed monitoring system that allows controlling the speed of vehicles and detecting drivers exceeding the authorized speed limit. Penalties for speeding are severe and can include fines, suspension of the driving license, and even imprisonment.
Moreover, speed limits in Switzerland can be adjusted according to weather conditions. For example, in case of snow or ice, speed limits may be lowered to ensure safety on the roads.
Adhering to speed limits is essential for ensuring the safety of drivers and other road users. Speeding can not only lead to financial and legal sanctions but also increase the risk of serious or fatal road accidents. Drivers must be aware of the speed limits in force and respect them at all times to ensure their safety and that of other road users.

Penalties for speeding: fine, warning, license withdrawal or imprisonment

Fine and warning

In Switzerland, if a driver exceeds the maximum authorized speed, they can receive a fine or be reported. The amount of the fine or the reporting decision varies depending on the number of km/h exceeded:
[Image depicting the fines for speeding in Switzerland]

License withdrawal

If a driver is reported for speeding in Switzerland, they may have their driving license withdrawn. The penalties vary depending on the number of km/h exceeded and where the offense occurred. The different sanctions are detailed in the table below:
[Image depicting the penalties for license withdrawal due to speeding]

A driver warned for speeding receives a warning in the form of a yellow card. They are thus cautioned not to commit further offenses. If the driver is again caught speeding within two years, their driving license will be withdrawn. A repeat offender in terms of speeding will likely face a longer duration of license withdrawal.

In cases of dangerous speeding, the police can immediately withdraw the license. In this case, the driver must undergo a traffic psychology test, during which their driving suitability will be evaluated.

License withdrawal and imprisonment

In Switzerland, exceeding prescribed speed limits can have serious consequences on road safety, endangering the lives of other road users. If a driver exceeds the speed limit by at least 40 km/h in a built-up area, 60 km/h outside built-up areas, or 80 km/h on motorways, they are considered a reckless driver and face severe penalties. The penalties include very high fines, imprisonment for one to four years, a minimum two-year driving license withdrawal, and the necessity of undergoing a traffic psychology examination to regain the license. Moreover, the reckless driver’s vehicle may be confiscated, sold, or destroyed.

Legal and financial consequences for drivers

When a driver commits speeding, they may face significant legal and financial consequences. In addition to the aforementioned penalties, the driver can be held responsible for damages caused to third parties in the event of an accident. Insurance companies may refuse to cover damages caused by drivers who have committed serious offenses, such as significant speeding. Furthermore, the driver may be obliged to pay additional costs such as legal and court fees. If the driver is unable to pay the fines, they may face legal proceedings leading to even more severe consequences, such as imprisonment.

Measures to prevent speeding

Several measures are in place in Switzerland to prevent speeding. Among these measures, the use of radars and surveillance cameras to detect drivers exceeding the authorized speed is noteworthy. Regular speed checks can discourage drivers from committing speeding offenses, making them understand that the law is strictly enforced.
Additionally, awareness and education campaigns can be conducted to inform drivers of the dangers of excessive speed and encourage them to respect speed limits. Driving schools can also play an important role in teaching drivers good driving practices and emphasizing the importance of respecting speed limits.