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Zigzagging in a traffic jam, cycling just before a pedestrian crossing, and seeing red lights as non-binding advice: Such scenes are not uncommon, even if most cyclists obey the traffic rules. This is not only dangerous, but also illegal. Like all traffic offenders, cyclists must factor in a fine. Frequent buses:
Ignore the red light
Crossing a red light can be observed repeatedly, especially in cities. Since the beginning of 2021, bicycles have been allowed to turn right at red traffic lights if a yellow arrow with the bicycle symbol clearly allows this and neither cars nor pedestrians are hindered or endangered (more information here: When can you cross the red lights??). But this is by no means a free pass to ignore the red light signal.
Fine: 60 francs
No stop at the stop
On a bike, stopping completely at a stop sign can be tedious and therefore not usually done. The ride is interrupted, both legs have to touch the ground for a moment, and new power is needed to get the bike to move again. But if you immediately underestimate the danger, stop signs are not there for fun: they serve to ensure safety in blind or potentially dangerous places.
Fine: 30 francs
ride on the pavement
Some cyclists use it as a shortcut, while others use it when the road is blocked by cars or the bike path is cut: the pavement. Whether for convenience or because of headless drivers – driving on the pavement is often taboo for two-wheelers, the risk of bumping into passers-by is very high. Exception: where there are no bike lanes or roads, children up to the age of twelve are allowed to cycle here.
Fine: 40 francs
more pedestrian than bike zone
In the inner city, there are always conflicts as the bikes pass through the slow-moving crowd. However, if the boulevards are clearly marked as pedestrian zones, then bicycles are strictly not allowed to use them. Therefore: Please push the bike or get a fine.
Fine: 30 francs
Ignore the bike lane
Separate bike lanes or lanes are designed to increase safety and separate cyclists from cars and often pedestrians. However, the cycle path not only serves as a recommendation, but should also be used by riders if available – nevertheless, by racing bikes who usually go on the road.
Fine: 30 francs
ignore pedestrians
The following applies to both drivers and cyclists: If a person enters a pedestrian crossing or clearly wants to cross, all vehicles must stop in both directions, even if there is still room for the bike. The situation is different for pedestrian crossings with central islands that legally turn one lane into two. But the same is true here: stop when in doubt, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Fine: 40 francs
release the handlebar
Even the smallest two-wheelers often master the art of hands-free cycling. This looks great and proves its own body control – but it’s actually forbidden. According to the Highway Traffic Law, cyclists must have at least one hand on the handlebars while driving, as in a car where at least one hand must be on the steering wheel and the other hand must be ready to intervene.
Fine: 20 francs
Driving without lights
Since April 1, 2022, all e-bikes in Switzerland must also be driven with lights during the day. 20 francs if there is no light. For non-electric bikes, lights are mandatory, at least in the evening and at night. The law distinguishes between two scenarios: driving on a street that is illuminated at night, or driving without lights on a street that is not illuminated at night. Depending on where you’re caught, the fine is lower or higher.
Buses: 40 (illuminated road) or 60 francs (no lights)
Missing equipment on e-bike
In addition to the requirement to wear headlights during the day, e-bike riders must follow other rules for riding electric bikes: For example, all e-bikes must be permanently fitted with a bell. Fast e-bikes with electric assist up to 45 km/h must also have a rear view mirror, where helmets are mandatory.
Fines: 20 (no bell/mirror) or 30 francs (no helmet)
Source: Blick
I’m Ella Sammie, author specializing in the Technology sector. I have been writing for 24 Instatnt News since 2020, and am passionate about staying up to date with the latest developments in this ever-changing industry.
