Posted by Dr Michelle Wright
Welcome to Health Matters – your weekly dose of all things medical with me, Dr Michelle Wright – British-trained GP and director of first aid training and health education company, HealthFirst.
What is legally required to have in your car in Switzerland?
Today talking about something simple but vital. What to carry with you in your car in Switzerland — not just for legal reasons, but importantly for your health and safety.
Under Swiss federal law, if you’re driving a car here, you must have a warning triangle onboard. It’s the one item officially required but don’t be fooled by the simplicity.
Imagine you’re in a minor accident or have a breakdown on the motorway. Visibility is everything. That bright red triangle, placed 50 to 100 metres behind your vehicle, alerts oncoming traffic. It also gives you — and other drivers — precious time to react, potentially saving lives, including yours.
What are some other items that should be in every car?
Now, thinking about some other things that aren’t legally required, but I think absolutely should be in every car — especially if you care about your health and the health of others.
First up: a basic First Aid Kit
I can’t stress this enough — as a doctor, I’ve seen how having a simple sterile bandage or a pair of gloves can make a world of difference. While not mandatory in Switzerland, a properly stocked first aid kit is a really good idea. A kit meeting the European DIN 13164 standard is a good benchmark. It includes bandages, antiseptics, scissors, gloves, and a foil rescue blanket — the basics to stop bleeding, prevent infection, and treat shock before help arrives.
And remember to check the expiration dates. Supplies can degrade over time. Make it a yearly ritual — perhaps when you change your tyres for the season.
Second: a high-visibility vest
Again, not required by Swiss law, but smart to have — ideally one for each passenger. If you break down or have an accident in the fog, snow, or at night, being seen can mean being saved.
Third: a flashlight or headlamp
Because of course, car trouble doesn’t wait for daylight. A flashlight helps you see — and be seen — if you’re stuck on a dark road. Go for a model with a long battery life and keep spare batteries in your glove box.
Fourth: water and snacks
Especially if you’re travelling in winter or remote areas. Dehydration or low blood sugar can make a bad situation worse. A few energy bars and a bottle of water don’t take much space but can make a long wait for a tow truck much more bearable — and healthier.
And finally: a phone charger
In an emergency, communication is critical. A dead phone battery can mean the difference between getting help in minutes or being stuck for hours. Keep a USB cable or portable power bank handy.
So, to sum up: in Switzerland, the only item you’re legally required to carry in your car is a warning triangle. But it’s wise to go further.
A first aid kit, high-visibility vest, flashlight, water, snacks, and a phone charger are all practical additions that can make a real difference in an emergency. Small investments that help you stay ready for the unexpected.
That’s it for this episode. Catch the podcast and others in the series at worldradio.ch/healthmatters.
