Zone signals
The following traffic situations are from the ‘From Practice’ column and are based on practical examples. The correct traffic rules are explained in collaboration with the Verkehrsschule Zug.
Sven Meier, president of the Verkehrsschule Zug, gives information about traffic rules and situations. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact him. He will give you good information.
Did you know that a traffic sign is only valid until the next intersection, after which it no longer applies? If it applies after the intersection, it must be indicated by a repeat sign. This is not the case with signs for pedestrian zones and 30 km/h zones, which are valid for several blocks, and only end at the point that a sign indicates this. This is also the case with other signs, namely General 50 and General 80.
Traffic calming in residential areas, villages, and city centres are a vital part of municipal traffic planning. Reduced speed zones are there to eliminate hazards, reduce pollution or noise, and/or improve traffic flow in residential or commercial areas. As a rule, driving at a consistent speed in the highest gear possible should be the goal. This is achieved by the most reasonable use of road restrictions or other structural measures that effectively increase safety, but do not constitute harassment.
Pedestrian zones
- The sign ‘Encounter Zone’ indicates streets in residential or commercial areas on which pedestrians and users of vehicle-like devices are allowed to use the entire traffic area. They have the right of way over drivers of vehicles, but must not obstruct vehicles unnecessarily.
- The maximum speed is 20 km/h.
- Parking is only allowed where indicated by signs or markings.
30 km/h zone
- The sign ‘Tempo-30-Zone’ marks streets in neighbourhoods or settlement areas on which drivers must be particularly careful and considerate. The maximum speed is 30km/h.
- There are no pedestrian crossings in these zones, except in special areas such as schools or homes. This means that pedestrians may cross the road anywhere, but they do not have the right of way. Deviation from this rule must be signposted, and is only permissible if necessary for traffic safety.
For more safety
Reduced speed in town centres has been proven to increase safety for all road users. Children on their way to school, senior citizens doing their shopping, people on their way to the bus stop and other pedestrians undoubtedly benefit the most. Crossing the main road as a pedestrian becomes easier and safer because those who drive slower see more and react faster. It is also easier for cyclists to turn into the main street, or to do left turns, because motorised traffic travels at the average bicycle speed of about 20 km/h. In general, low speeds allow for better traffic flow and better communication with other road users, regardless of the means of transport used. Aggressive behaviour is decreased, which ensures mutual consideration.
Better perception
Motorists can only see three points in one second so, the faster one drives, the farther away these points are. This means that events in the near field of vision are noticed later. So, people who drive more slowly have more time to observe their surroundings and can react in time if, for example, a child runs into the road.
New signal
From January 2023, carpools will be given special rights. The Federal Council has introduced a new symbol to reduce environmental pollution and traffic congestion.
This symbol indicates lanes that may be used only by carpools. Carpools may also drive in bus lanes if they do not obstruct public transport. This symbol is also used to reserve parking spaces for carpools.
