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Lane changes and lane rules
Lane changes and lane rules cover how to safely and legally change lanes, who must give way, and how to behave on motorways and in reversible lanes. Correct use of indicators, mirrors and checking the blind spot reduces the risk of accidents and is important both in practical driving and on the theory test.
Rules & Regulations
- You must always signal clearly and in good time with your indicator when you intend to change lanes or direction. The indicator shows your intention but does not automatically grant priority.
- Before you begin to change lanes you must check mirrors and the blind spot and ensure the lane change can be made without forcing other road users to brake or swerve.
- When you change lanes you have a duty to give way to vehicles already traveling in the lane you intend to enter; you must not cut in front of a vehicle so that it has to brake heavily or take evasive action.
- On motorways the same basic rules for lane changes apply: signal in good time, check the blind spot and adjust speed so the lane change is safe. Vehicles entering and exiting must observe priority according to road signs and the junction's rules.
- For reversible lanes you must follow the signs and signals that show whether a lane is open or closed. Do not drive in a lane that is shown as closed or deactivated.
- Reversible lanes are controlled by light signals above the lane: a red cross means the lane is closed in your direction, a green downward arrow means it is open.
- Overtaking on the right on a motorway is permitted in heavy queues with several lanes in the same direction, where speed is determined by the vehicle ahead — otherwise the main rule is that overtaking should be done on the left.
- The vehicle changing lanes always has a duty to give way to traffic already in the lane. If two vehicles simultaneously want to move into the same lane there is no exact rule as to who must give way — the Traffic Ordinance (Chapter 3, Section 43) instead requires that lane changes be made without danger or unnecessary obstruction, and that both drivers adapt to one another.
Tips for Drivers
- Indicate early but not too early — give other road users reasonable notice while ensuring the signal reflects your intent to actually change lanes shortly.
- Use a quick, friendly check of the blind spot (turn your head) before you change lanes — mirrors are not always sufficient, especially for bicycles and motorcycles.
- On motorways: plan lane changes well in advance when traffic is dense; try to change into gaps instead of forcing a gap by slowing down.
- If you are driving in a lane that will soon end, be prepared to change lanes in good time and follow local signage and any arrow markings.
Common Mistakes
- Relying solely on indicators and not checking the blind spot before changing lanes.
- Believing that indicators automatically give the right to change lanes — the signal does not change your duty to give way.
- Making sudden or violent steering movements when changing lanes instead of a calm, controlled maneuver.
Exam Tip
Theory questions may test the difference between signaling and actually having the right to change lanes. A common trap question: 'Does using your indicator always give priority?' — the correct answer is no; you must still ensure that the lane change can be made without obstructing others.
Did You Know?
After overtaking you should return to the right lane when it is safe — this reduces unnecessary blocking of the left lane and improves traffic safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I use indicators when changing lanes?
Use indicators well in advance before you change lanes to show your intention. Make sure to signal so others have time to understand what you intend to do, but don't turn the indicator off too early.
Do I have priority if I have already turned on the indicator?
No. Indicators only show your intention. You must still give way to vehicles in the lane you intend to enter and ensure the change can be made without forcing others to give way or brake heavily.
What applies when changing lanes on a motorway?
The same basic rules apply: signal, check mirrors and blind spot and only change lanes if it is safe. On-ramps and off-ramps may have special right-of-way rules displayed by signs.
How do reversible lanes work?
Reversible lanes are controlled by road signs or signals that show whether a lane is open or closed. Always follow these markings and do not drive in a lane that is marked as closed.
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