Switzerland operates on a right-hand drive system.
In Switzerland, motorists drive on the right-hand side of the road and typically overtake on the left. This setup is common in many parts of the world, contrasting with countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, or Japan, where driving is on the left.
Understanding Right-Hand Drive
For visitors, particularly those from countries that drive on the left, adapting to right-hand traffic is crucial. It impacts various aspects of driving:
- Road Positioning: You will be driving in the rightmost lane on multi-lane roads.
- Overtaking: Passing other vehicles generally occurs on the left side.
- Intersections and Roundabouts: These will be navigated differently than in left-hand drive countries, requiring attention to traffic flow from the left.
Driving Side Comparison
To illustrate the difference, here's a quick comparison of driving sides:
| Driving Side | Road Position | Common Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Right-Hand | Drive on Right | Switzerland, United States, Germany, France, Canada |
| Left-Hand | Drive on Left | United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, India |
Practical Advice for Driving in Switzerland
When driving in Switzerland, especially if you're accustomed to left-hand traffic, consider the following:
- Vehicle Orientation: If you bring a car from a left-hand drive country (where the steering wheel is on the right), be aware of the altered visibility, especially when overtaking or navigating narrow roads.
- Headlight Adjustment: Ensure your vehicle's headlights are adjusted for right-hand traffic to prevent dazzling oncoming drivers. This is often a legal requirement.
- Road Signs and Markings: Familiarize yourself with Swiss road signs and markings, which follow standard European conventions.
- Vignette Requirement: Remember that a vignette (annual road tax sticker) is mandatory for using Swiss motorways.
Adjusting to the right-hand driving style may take some time, but with awareness and caution, it becomes straightforward.
