Physician urges stricter testing for senior drivers in Switzerland as accidents rise sharply

Traffic safety in Switzerland is drawing fresh attention as the number of accidents involving older drivers continues to climb.

In 2025 alone, the Federal Roads Office reported that drivers over 70 were responsible for 5,505 accidents—around 600 more than those caused by younger drivers.

Traffic physician Rolf Seeger stressed that cognitive and reflex abilities tend to decline significantly by the age of 80.

He argues that compulsory annual driving tests should begin at 80, rather than the current two-year interval, to ensure that senior drivers remain capable behind the wheel.

Zurich Introduces Seasonal Leash Law for Dogs

From April 1st, dog owners in the canton of Zurich must keep their pets on a leash until July 31st.

The new rule aims to protect ground-nesting birds and young wild animals born during the summer. Violating the leash mandate carries a fine of 60 francs.

Enforcement will be carried out by police, game wardens, rangers, and hunting district supervisors, who are authorised to issue fines for non-compliance.

The law is part of a wider Swiss effort to protect vulnerable wildlife during critical breeding periods.

Car Insurance Premiums Surge Across Switzerland

Drivers are feeling the pinch as car insurance premiums rise sharply.

Over the past five years, premiums have increased by roughly 20%, according to the Comparis consumer platform.

The surge is linked to rising costs of spare parts and repairs—spare parts are up 19.1% while service and repair costs rose 8.1%.

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Dirk Renkert, a Comparis expert, explained that modern vehicles include complex electronic components like LED headlights, rearview mirrors with sensors, and driver assistance systems, all contributing to more expensive repairs.

Natural events like hailstorms have also added to claim-related costs, pushing premiums higher.

EuroAirport Basel Expands Summer Flight Options

Travelers using EuroAirport Basel have more destinations to choose from this summer.

Between March 29th and October 27th, the airport will launch eight new routes, including Bodrum (Turkey), Chisinau (Moldova), Lille (France), Podgorica (Montenegro), Stockholm, Warsaw, Poznan (Poland), and Tirgu Mureș (Romania).

However, from April 15th to May 20th, most flights will be suspended due to runway renovations.

EasyJet will continue operating with a reduced schedule, while other airlines temporarily pause service.

Impact and Consequences

The proposed stricter testing for senior drivers could improve road safety but may face resistance from older drivers who value their independence.

Meanwhile, Zurich’s leash law could reduce wildlife fatalities but adds responsibility for dog owners, who must adjust during the critical spring and summer months.

Rising car insurance premiums may influence vehicle choices and push consumers toward more cost-effective models or insurance plans.

EuroAirport’s new routes could boost tourism and business travel, but the temporary suspension during renovations may inconvenience travelers.

What’s Next

Authorities will likely monitor the effect of annual driving tests for seniors and adjust policies based on road safety data.

Dog owners in Zurich will need public reminders and clear guidelines for compliance.

Insurance companies may continue revising premiums if vehicle repair costs rise further.

Travelers should plan ahead for EuroAirport’s temporary flight suspensions, while airlines coordinate schedules around renovations.

Summary

Switzerland is seeing a mix of safety, regulatory, and economic developments: stricter rules for senior drivers, seasonal leash requirements in Zurich, rising car insurance premiums, and expanded but temporarily interrupted flight services at EuroAirport Basel.

Each change carries potential benefits, challenges, and adjustments for citizens and travelers alike.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Senior drivers over 70 caused 5,505 accidents in 2025, prompting calls for annual tests starting at age 80
• Zurich mandates dogs be leashed from April 1 to July 31 to protect wildlife, with fines of 60 francs for violations
• Car insurance premiums have risen roughly 20% in five years due to expensive vehicle parts and complex repairs
• EuroAirport Basel adds eight new summer routes, though most flights will pause April 15–May 20 for runway renovations
• Policy changes impact road safety, pet owners, vehicle owners, and travelers across Switzerland