What is the difference between a fine, standard criminal proceedings, and administrative proceedings?
The fine
You receive a fine if you have committed an offense against the Road Traffic Act that is listed in the Ordinance on Fines. The administrative fine procedure is not applied if the violation threatened or caused injury to a person or if it resulted in property damage. Examples of situations where fines are issued: Exceeding the allowed parking time, stopping at a place that obstructs visibility, driving too fast, not wearing a seatbelt, etc. Other fines can be found in the federal fine list.
Ordinary criminal proceedings
Ordinary criminal proceedings are initiated if the severity of the punishable offense excludes settlement of the case with a fine or the fine was not paid on time. Examples are: Grossly excessive speeding or driving under the influence (even if no one was injured).
Administrative proceedings
Don’t forget: A violation against traffic laws that is not listed in the Law on Fines is reported to the department of motor vehicles of your canton of residence. This office must assess whether you will be warned or have your driver’s license revoked, in addition to criminal sanctions.
This takes place as part of administrative proceedings. If you do no agree with the penalty, you can raise an objection.
Additional information and a sample letter for objections can be found in the appendix.