Road traffic: Important changes in the new year
PLEASE NOTE Various changes in road traffic will come into force in the new year. Here you can find out which innovations the Federal Roads Office has in store for 2023.
The new federal law on cycle paths (Veloweggesetz), for example, is intended to ensure better and safer cycle paths. To this end, the cantons are required to plan and implement cycle path networks. The federal government is also to build cycle paths on its roads.
Introduction of new speed 30 zones
A simplification is planned for the creation of new 30 km/h speed and pedestrian zones. Until now, it was necessary for the creation of new such zones that, for example, the traffic situation is particularly dangerous or certain road users need special protection.
These so-called qualified reasons will cease to apply from January 1, 2023. In addition, the obligation to prepare an expert opinion will no longer apply if the general speed limit is to be reduced on a road. However, the authorities must continue to order and publish the zones. On traffic-oriented roads in built-up areas, the speed limit will continue to be 50 km/h in principle.
Carpool traffic symbol
Carpooling can reduce environmental traffic congestion. With the new symbol "Carpool" vehicles with multiple occupants can be privileged. In moving traffic, the symbol can be used with the word "exempt" on an additional sign to the signals "General prohibition of driving in both directions", "Prohibition for motor vehicles" and "Bus lane".
Only vehicles that are occupied by at least the number of people corresponding to the number on the symbol are allowed to drive in the lanes and traffic lanes signalized in this way. Carpooling also has advantages when parking - the minimum occupancy requirement does not apply when leaving.
Measurement method for exhaust gas retesting
Exhaust emission regulations are designed to reduce particulate matter that is hazardous to health. However, the federal government writes that the measurement methods used up to now are not sensitive enough to detect all defective diesel particulate filters. That is why a more precise measurement method is being introduced.
Procedure in the event of a driver's license revocation
The procedure for withdrawing a driver's license will become faster as of April 1. Now, after a driver's license has been confiscated, the police must pass it on to the cantonal authority within three working days. The cantonal revocation authority must then return the card to the holder within ten working days - unless there is sufficient doubt about fitness to drive.
Risk in the event of job loss
The federal government aims to reduce the risk of job loss for professional drivers. If a driver's license has been revoked for only a minor offense, the authorities will be able to allow driving that is necessary for the exercise of the profession from April 1, 2023. Such an exception is not provided in the case of moderate or serious offenses. It will also not be possible to authorize such driving for people whose driver's license has been revoked for an indefinite period or permanently.
