Maximum Speed

General Speed Limits in Switzerland

• 50 km/h – in built-up areas (town and village signs)

• 80 km/h – outside built-up areas (country roads)

• 100 km/h – on semi-motorways (autostrasse)

• 120 km/h – on motorways (autobahn)

• Lower limits in special zones: 30-zone, 20-zone (residential), 40 km/h for towing

Lower Limits for Specific Vehicles

• Cars with trailer: max. 80 km/h on motorway / semi-motorway, 60 km/h elsewhere outside town

• Towing a broken-down vehicle: max. 40 km/h, motorway prohibited

• Heavy lorries: 80 km/h on motorway, 80 km/h semi-motorway, 80 km/h country roads

Speed Limit ≠ Appropriate Speed

The posted maximum is the absolute upper limit. The appropriate speed is often lower – in fog, snow, heavy traffic or near schools.

Exceeding the limit by 25 km/h (in town) or 30 km/h (outside) leads to licence withdrawal. Excessive speeding (50/60/80 km/h over) counts as a crime under the Via Sicura law.