Swiss Driving Theory · RTA / TRO

Roadworthiness

The Swiss driver is responsible for the roadworthiness of the vehicle: brakes, tyres (min. 1.6 mm tread, winter tyres recommended), lights, steering, secured load and correct number of occupants.

Driver Responsibility

The driver is responsible for ensuring the vehicle is in a roadworthy condition – brakes, tyres, lights, steering, windscreen wipers, mirrors.

If the vehicle becomes unroadworthy during the trip (e.g. light fails, tyre damaged), driving must be stopped or limited to reaching the next garage safely.

Tyres and Brakes

  • Tyres: minimum tread depth 1.6 mm (legal); recommended 4 mm summer / 4 mm winter for grip

  • Winter tyres recommended from October to Easter – with summer tyres on snow/ice you may be liable in case of accident (Art. 29 RTA)

  • Check tyre pressure regularly, including the spare

  • Brakes: spongy pedal, pulling to one side or unusual noise – garage immediately

Load and Occupants

Load must be secured against shifting or falling off. It must not obstruct the view or be longer than allowed.

The maximum number of occupants is set in the vehicle registration document. Every passenger needs a seat belt and a proper seat.

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