Contents area

General recommendations slippery roads

What to do if slippery road conditions are forecast

  • The hazards associated with icy roads include a sudden danger of skidding, road and air travel coming to a standstill, disruption to rail travel, falling branches breaking under the weight of ice, and falling trees.

    Information on the potential impact and hazard categories of icy road conditions can be found here.

    The following precautions should be taken in preparation for icy road conditions in order to get through the winter safely, both as a pedestrian and a driver (of a car, motorbike, bicycle, etc.):

  • Keep an eye on local weather developments.

  • Pay attention to the push notifications on the MeteoSwiss-App.

  • Check that your car is ready for winter (winter tyres, etc.).

What to do when the roads are slippery

  • When the roads are slippery, it is especially important that you adjust your driving to the road conditions.

    It is recommended that you:

  • Keep an eye on local weather developments.

  • Pay attention to the push notifications on the MeteoSwiss-App.

  • Avoid making any journeys unless they are absolutely necessary and use public transport if you have to travel.

  • Stay informed about the driving conditions (through  radio, 163 telephone service, TV, media).

  • Always follow the official advice.

What to do in the event of an accident due to slippery road conditions

  • Many accidents in winter are the result of ice on the roads, particularly involving cars that are not fitted with winter tyres or drivers who do not adjust their speed to take account of the conditions. Pedestrians can also be injured, by slipping on an icy pavement, for example.

    What can be done?

  • Secure the accident site.

  • File an accident  report (including information on the road conditions).

  • Report any damage to your insurance company.

  • In the case of personal injury, give first aid, and call the police and ambulance if necessary.