Do I need winter tyres in Switzerland?
There's no general winter-tyre obligation — but you're still responsible. No Swiss law requires winter tyres. However, you must keep your vehicle under control at all times and adapted to the road and weather conditions (SVG/VRV). With unsuitable tyres on snow or ice you can still be fined and are liable if you cause an accident or obstruct traffic. The minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm (summer and winter); too little tread costs CHF 100 per tyre. Snow chains are mandatory only where the relevant sign is posted. In short: not compulsory, but strongly advised in winter — and you're liable in an accident.
📋 The rules
- No general winter-tyre obligation
- Vehicle must be controllable & adapted (SVG)
- Minimum tread 1.6 mm (summer and winter)
- Too little tread: CHF 100 fine per tyre
- Snow chains only where the sign is posted
🔓 Exceptions
- Accident on summer tyres in winter: benefits may be cut
- Snow chains mandatory only at the sign (≥2 drive wheels)
- Gross negligence: insurer can take recourse
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Even without a winter-tyre rule you risk a fine if you obstruct traffic or cause an accident with unsuitable tyres, and the insurer can cut benefits or take recourse for gross negligence. Too little tread (under 1.6 mm) costs CHF 100 per tyre, and dangerously worn tyres can even lead to a licence withdrawal. Beware a myth: "with no winter-tyre rule I'm safe" is false — you remain responsible for a controllable vehicle. Tip: fit winter tyres in winter anyway and check the tread.
📎 Official sources
❓ Frequently asked
Are winter tyres compulsory in Switzerland?
No, there's no general statutory winter-tyre obligation. However, you must always keep your vehicle under control and adapt it to the road and weather conditions. With unsuitable tyres on snow or ice you still risk a fine and are liable if you cause an accident.
What happens in an accident on summer tyres?
If you cause an accident or obstruct traffic in winter with unsuitable tyres, this can be treated as failing to adapt to the conditions. The insurer can cut its benefits for gross negligence or take recourse against you for part of the damage caused.
How much tread do the tyres need?
The statutory minimum tread depth is 1.6 millimetres, for summer and winter tyres alike. Too little tread costs a fine of CHF 100 per tyre. For winter, significantly more tread and genuine winter tyres are recommended for safety on snow and ice.
When do I need snow chains?
Snow chains are only compulsory where the sign for compulsory snow chains is posted. Then you need metal chains on at least two drive wheels of the same axle. Ignoring the sign brings a fixed fine. Otherwise snow chains are voluntary on Swiss roads.
Are winter tyres still worth it?
Yes. Even without an obligation, winter tyres are strongly recommended in winter, as they grip far better on snow, ice and in the cold. You remain responsible for a controllable vehicle, and with winter tyres you considerably reduce the risk of an accident and of liability.
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