A driver circuit for driving a laser diode is described herein. In accordance with a first exemplary embodiment the driver circuit includes a first electronic switch connected to an output node that is configured to be operably connected to a laser diode. The electric connection between the first electronic switch and the output node has a first inductance. The driver circuit further includes a bypass circuit that is coupled to the output node and configured to take over, when activated, the current supplied to the output node via the first electronic switch, thus magnetizing the first inductance.