Driving in Portugal vs. Switzerland: Key Differences
When navigating the roads of Portugal and Switzerland, drivers encounter distinct regulations and practices that significantly influence their experience. From lane markings and speed limits to alcohol consumption rules, these nations exhibit notable contrasts. Understanding these variations is crucial for ensuring a secure and enjoyable journey in foreign landscapes.
Driving Side
The driving side in portugal is the Right Side of the road
Driving Safety Score
The driving Driving Safety Score in portugal is 79
Gas Price in USD
The driving Driving Safety Score for portugal is 1.83 US Dollars
While the driving side of a country remains the same, the driving safety score is updated annually based on each countries car accident fatality rate. Lastly, the gas price is only an estimate. Due to frequent fluctuations, it serves as a general reference rather than an exact figure for each country.
Lanes
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| Portugal | Switzerland | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Markings: Solid Yellow Line | Marks the left edge on divided roads. | Used for temporary road changes or construction zones. | |
| Markings: Dashed Yellow Line | Centerline on two-way roads; passing permitted when safe. | Used in temporary traffic management. | |
| Overtaking: On Right | Prohibited. | Not typically allowed, except in certain slow-moving traffic situations. | |
| Bus Lanes: Usage | Reserved for buses and taxis. | Reserved for buses and sometimes taxis. | |
| Bus Lanes: Markings | Labeled 'BUS'; often with road signs. | Labeled 'BUS' or 'BUS ONLY'; often with road signs. | |
| High- Occupancy Lanes: Requirements | N/A | N/A |
Speeds Limits
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| Portugal | Switzerland | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Areas: Standard | 50 km/h | 30-50 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Cars And Motorcycles | 90 km/h | 80 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Trucks And Trailers | 70 km/h | 80 km/h | |
| Highways: Trucks And Trailers | 90 km/h | 80 km/h | |
| Enforcement: On-the- Spot Fines | Possible | Yes, drivers can be fined on the spot. |
Signals
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| Portugal | Switzerland | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic Lights: Red And Amber Together | Not used in Portugal | Prepare to go | |
| Traffic Signs: Language | Portuguese; symbols are standard | Symbols are standard, French, German, Italian and Rumantsch languages are used | |
| Traffic Signs: Warning | Triangular-shaped with white background and red border | Triangular-shaped with a red border |
Turns
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| Portugal | Switzerland | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Right Turn On Red | Prohibited | Prohibited unless a specific sign allows it | |
| U- Turns Allowed | Allowed at intersections unless signs prohibit | Allowed unless prohibited by sign |
Documentation
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| Portugal | Switzerland | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Driver's License: Foreign: E U/ E E A | Accepted; no additional permit required | Accepted; International Driving Permit recommended for non-French/German/Italian speaking licenses | |
| Driver's License: Foreign: Non- E U | International Driving Permit recommended; national license accepted for short visits | Accepted for short visits; International Driving Permit recommended | |
| Vehicle Inspection: Requirement | Periodic inspections required; proof may be required | Vehicle inspection is required regularly; proof must be available | |
| Vehicle Inspection: Sticker | Displayed on the windshield | Proof of inspection is kept in the vehicle | |
| Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest | Mandatory | Not mandatory |
Alcohol
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| Portugal | Switzerland | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Limits: Professional Drivers | 0.02% | 0.05% | |
| Limits: Underage Drivers | 0.02% | 0.00% | |
| Enforcement: Random Checks | Common, especially during holidays | Common; police conduct random breath tests | |
| Enforcement: Fines | Varies; can be substantial | Substantial; fines can be based on income | |
| Test Refusal | Can result in license suspension | Can result in license suspension and fines |
When navigating the roads of Portugal and Switzerland, drivers encounter distinct regulations and practices that significantly influence their experience. From lane markings and speed limits to alcohol consumption rules, these nations exhibit notable contrasts. Understanding these variations is crucial for ensuring a secure and enjoyable journey in foreign landscapes.
Roundabouts
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| Portugal | Switzerland | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Signaling: Entering | Signal if turning immediately upon entry | No signaling normally required when entering | |
| Lane Usage: Right | Use for first exit or straight | Use for the first exit or straight |
Emergency Services
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| Portugal | Switzerland | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Contact: Traffic Police | Contact local authorities | 117 | |
| Contact: Roadside Assistance | Check with your insurance provider or ACP | 140 | |
| Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest | Mandatory | Not mandatory, but recommended |
Penalties And Fines
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| Portugal | Switzerland | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Fines: Speeding | Varies; €60 to €2,500, points on license | Varies; CHF 40 to CHF 400+, can lead to license suspension | |
| Common Fines: Seat Belts | €120 to €600 | CHF 60 | |
| Common Fines: Phone Use | €240 to €1,200 | CHF 100 | |
| Common Fines: Traffic Light Violation | €120 to €600 | Varies; substantial fines | |
| Payment: On The Spot | Possible | Common; fines can be issued on the spot | |
| Payment: Deadline | Varies; typically 30 days to pay | Varies; typically a few weeks to pay |