Message on the amendment of the road traffic law
A dispatch on the amendment of the Road Traffic Act (SVG) focuses not only on reducing greenhouse gases, but also on increasing road safety and enabling autonomous driving. In addition, the compulsory wearing of bicycle helmets from the age of 12 is to be discussed soon.
New framework conditions are to be laid down in the Road Traffic Act (SVG) by 2023, which will more precisely limit the extent to which vehicle drivers may be relieved of their duties and the extent to which automated systems are permitted for road traffic, provided that they operate on clearly defined individual routes and can be monitored. According to the Federal Council, automated vehicles can also increase road safety, improve traffic flow and reduce environmental emissions.
No more black box for delinquent motor vehicle drivers
In the case of speeding offenses, too, enforcement authorities and courts are to be given more discretionary powers to better assess the circumstances of offenses. However, the minimum term of imprisonment of one year is to be waived in future and the minimum duration of a driver's license suspension reduced from 24 to 12 months.
In the case of motor vehicle drivers with speeding offenses or driving impaired due to alcohol, a right of recourse rather than an obligation to recourse will apply in the future. This right of recourse will dispense with the introduction of an alcohol immobilizer and a black box.
Compulsory bicycle helmet for children and teenagers
The Federal Council is soon to be given the authority to introduce a general obligation to wear a bicycle helmet for young people over the age of 12, so that the road safety of very young road users is also better ensured. Currently, the number of accidents is increasing from the age of 12.
In the case of the probationary period for new drivers, it will be examined whether the probationary driver's license will only be forfeited if the holder commits another medium or serious offense during the probationary period.
At its meeting on 17 November 2021, the Federal Council adopted the dispatch on the amendment of the Road Traffic Act. The amendments to the Road Traffic Act will now be dealt with by parliament. The entry into force of the amendments is planned to be staggered from 2023.
Source: Astra/Federation
