Going on holiday by car: have you thought of everything?
21.6.2017
Translation: machine translated
During the holiday season, many Swiss people pack their bags and head off to the seaside in their cars. When you change countries, the regulations often change too. We've summarised the points you need to pay attention to during your trip.
At the latest after hearing on the radio that there are traffic jams in front of the Gotthard, it's official: the holidays have started. Have you thought of everything? Of course, checking your vehicle before setting off is very important. Who likes breaking down 1000km from home? You may also be stopped by the police. In such cases, you should be aware that our neighbouring countries do not have the same regulations as we do. We've summarised the important points about vehicle equipment.
Equipment for abroad depending on destination
In general, for the entire EU zone, the CH sticker is compulsory. This must be clearly visible and stuck to the rear of the car. In the countries listed below, you still need to provide the following:
Italy
- A breakdown triangle
- One safety waistcoat per person on the road
- Extinguisher (recommended)
- First aid kit
- Some winter tyres are prohibited in summer
More information about winter tyres in summer on Italian roads.
France
- For older cars: spare bulbs (recommended)
- Breakdown triangle
- One safety waistcoat per person on the road
- Ethylotest
Germany
- Breakdown triangle
- Fine-particle vignette in certain city centres
- Safety waistcoat and first aid kit compulsory for vehicles registered in Germany.
Austria
- Breakdown triangle
- First aid kit (in a sturdy airtight box)
- One safety waistcoat per vehicle
Croatia
- Breakdown triangle
- First aid kit
- Spare bulbs (except if xenon, neon or LED lights)
Spain
- A breakdown triangle
- One safety waistcoat per person on the road
- An overhanging load must be indicated by a sign. This sign is specific to Spain, the signs approved for the EU and for Italy are not valid.
Is your destination not listed above? The TCS has compiled a list of compulsory equipment by country. You'll find the information here.
Useful information
Roundabout
In Austria and Italy, cars entering a roundabout have priority over those already inside. This does not, of course, apply if there is a priority sign - often the case in Austria. Don't forget the indicator when you exit the roundabout.
Car accident - what to do
After an accident, the police only need to be informed in certain cases in Switzerland. Especially when people have been injured. Abroad, it is advisable to inform the police in all cases. To report the accident to the insurance company, you need to fill in a European accident report form at the scene of the incident. The form is available in several languages. You can then send the completed form to your insurance company. The best thing to do is to obtain a form before you go abroad. This is usually available on your insurance company's website.
Here, you will find a brochure from the "swiss national bureau of insurance" on the subject of "Accident abroad". This tells you what to do after an accident abroad and the important points to consider.
Maximum blood alcohol level
The safest thing to do in Switzerland and abroad is not to drink anything before getting behind the wheel. If you still want to have a drink, you should find out about the maximum blood alcohol level. Different levels apply in Europe. In the Baltic States, for example, the limit is 0.2. In Hungary, Romania, the Czech Republic and Slovakia the limit is even 0.0. In some European countries, the maximum blood alcohol level for young drivers is lower than that for other drivers. In Italy, for example, young drivers have a 0.0 level for the 3 years following their licence.
The right products for a safe journey
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Tanja Lehmann
Senior Category Business Manager
tanja.lehmann@digitecgalaxus.chFriends, family, cats and good wine are my lifeblood.