Some traffic rules are surprisingly unknown to many drivers. For example, the requirement to return signals on the main road. Or the comprehensive reversing ban introduced in 2016. This was because reverse gear resulted in above-average fatal crashes.
Anyone violating the reverse ban will be reported. Along with the fees, this costs at least a few hundred francs. Example: St. In the canton of Gallen, the standard fine is 200 francs, again without aggravating factors such as high fees and disability. Usually more.
When can you go back?
When can you return? The Traffic Regulations Ordinance (VRV) says, “For longer distances, reversing is only allowed when it is not possible to continue or turn around.” For example, in a narrow cul-de-sac or a narrow mountain road: Here you can legally go back until you turn back or make room to get out of the way. And of course, reversing for parking and maneuvering is allowed.
The dead end of the regulation, however, lies in the semi-voluntary return journey – that is, if there were any other way and you do it anyway: According to the VRV, “long distances” are prohibited without a compelling reason. Therefore, short distances are allowed. Just: What does that mean? Five or ten meters short or far?
Only a few meters are allowed
Before case law clarifies this at some point, as is often the case with traffic, the following applies: It depends. Backing from the first meter is dangerous, so distance is less important than the situation. Practical rules in meters (in 2016 the media sometimes read “20 meters” and the source is uncertain) should be treated with caution. In 2016, the explanatory text of the regulation spoke of permitted “very short distances”, i.e. more than a one-digit meter.
What to do in practice? Remember: the goal is to go back as little as possible. So only go back if there is no other way or if it’s completely seamless and only short. Someone driving back a car and a half on an empty neighborhood street is hardly in the red zone. If you try to go back 30 meters on a busy country road, you risk too much – especially if there is an opportunity to turn a little further ahead.
More return rules
By the way, there are other rules for reversing. No one backing up has the right of way and should never obstruct or endanger. Caution: Only walking speed (max. 5 km/h) is allowed – this is usually taken as a recommendation but is mandatory and violations result in really expensive fines. Drivers do not need to wear seat belts when manoeuvring (but passengers do!).
Reversing at level crossings, highways or busy intersections is strictly prohibited. For example, if you can’t see much because there is luggage in the car, someone needs to guide us. And if it turns out that you need to back up a long distance, the driving school-taught changing sides (i.e. driving with oncoming traffic) isn’t a mistake in itself – but if there’s a lot of space, it’s better to turn back in practice.