Ever wondered about the weird rules of the road in other countries? As someone who’s traveled a lot, I’ve come across some traffic laws that’ll make your head spin. These aren’t your everyday “buckle up” or “don’t speed” kind of rules. For this list, I will share 19 of the strangest traffic laws from around the world.
No driving in a bathrobe in California, USA
In sunny California, you might be tempted to hop in your car wearing just a comfy bathrobe. But think twice before you do! It’s actually against the law to drive while wearing a housecoat. This odd rule is meant to make sure drivers are properly dressed and alert. So, even if you’re just making a quick run to the store, take a minute to change into regular clothes first.
Keep your car clean in Russia
Russia takes car cleanliness very seriously. Driving a dirty car in many parts of the country is illegal. This law isn’t just about looking good – it’s also about safety. A clean car is easier to see on the road, especially in bad weather. You might get pulled over and fined if your car is too dirty. So before you hit the Russian roads, ensure your ride is sparkling clean.
Don’t eat while driving in Cyprus
In Cyprus, snacking behind the wheel is a big no-no. The law forbids eating or drinking anything while driving, even if you’re stuck in traffic. This rule is meant to keep drivers focused on the road and not on their food. You could face a hefty fine if you’re caught munching on a sandwich or sipping a coffee while driving. It’s best to save your snacks for when you’re parked.
No running out of gas on the German Autobahn
Germany’s famous Autobahn has some strict rules, including one about running out of gas. Stopping on the Autobahn is illegal because you’ve run out of fuel. This law exists because a stalled car on these high-speed roads can be really dangerous. Always make sure your tank is full before you hit the Autobahn. If you run out of gas, you could face a fine and a lot of angry drivers.
Don’t splash pedestrians in Japan
In Japan, it’s against the law to splash pedestrians with water from puddles as you drive by. This rule is all about being polite and considerate to others. Even if it’s an accident, you could still get in trouble. The law encourages drivers to slow down when it’s wet and be extra careful around pedestrians. So when it’s raining in Japan, take it slow and watch out for puddles.
No shirtless driving in Thailand
Thailand has a law that says you must wear a shirt while driving. This rule applies to both men and women and is meant to keep things proper on the roads. It doesn’t matter how hot it is – you need to keep your shirt on. If you’re caught driving shirtless, you could get a fine. So, even if you’re coming from the beach, make sure to put on a top before you start driving.
Don’t honk near hospitals in the UK
In the United Kingdom, it’s illegal to honk your horn while stationary on a road, during certain hours, or near hospitals. This law is all about keeping noise pollution down and being respectful to others. The quiet hours are typically from 11:30 PM to 7:00 AM. If you’re caught honking during these times or near a hospital, you could get a fine. So remember to use your horn only when absolutely necessary.
No eating garlic before driving in Indiana, USA
In Indiana, there’s a strange law that says you can’t eat garlic 4 hours before driving. This odd rule is supposedly about preventing driver distraction. The pungent smell of garlic might be seen as too distracting for other drivers. While it’s unclear how often this law is enforced, it’s still on the books. So, if you’re in Indiana, you might want to skip the garlic bread before your road trip.
Don’t drive with a dog on your lap in Hawaii
Hawaii takes pet safety in cars very seriously. It’s illegal to drive with a dog on your lap in the Aloha State. This law is meant to prevent distractions and keep both you and your furry friend safe. Even if your dog is small and well-behaved, it needs to be in a proper pet carrier or secured in the back seat. Breaking this law could result in a fine, so make sure your pup is properly secured before you start driving.
No sleeping in your car in Denmark
In Denmark, it’s against the law to sleep in your parked car. This rule is meant to prevent people from using their cars as temporary homes. You could get in trouble even if you’re just taking a quick nap during a long road trip. The law encourages drivers to find proper rest stops or accommodations when they’re tired. If you’re sleepy while driving in Denmark, finding a hotel or designated rest area is best.
Don’t drive too slowly in Oregon, USA
While most traffic laws focus on speeding, Oregon has a law against driving too slowly. This rule is meant to keep traffic flowing smoothly and prevent accidents caused by slow drivers. You could get a ticket if you’re driving significantly under the speed limit without a good reason. The law doesn’t apply when road conditions are bad or when you’re in a slow-moving vehicle like a tractor. So, in Oregon, ensure you keep up with the traffic flow.
Keep both hands on the wheel in Cyprus
Cyprus has a strict rule about keeping both hands on the steering wheel while driving. This law is all about maintaining control of your vehicle at all times. You’re not allowed to drive with just one hand, even if you’re an experienced driver. The only exception is when you need to change gears. If you’re caught driving with one hand, you could face a fine. So when you’re on Cyprus roads, keep both hands firmly on the wheel.
No driving in flip-flops in Spain
In Spain, driving while wearing flip-flops or loose footwear is illegal. This rule is about safety – loose shoes can slip off or get caught on the pedals. The law requires drivers to wear shoes securely fastened to their feet. If you’re caught driving in flip-flops, you could get a fine. So, even if you’re heading to the beach, bring proper shoes for driving.
Don’t leave your car running unattended in Texas, USA
In Texas, it’s against the law to leave your car running unattended. This rule is meant to prevent car theft and reduce unnecessary emissions. Even if you’re just running into a store for a quick minute, you need to turn off your engine and take your keys. The law does make exceptions for cars with remote start systems. If you break this rule, you could face a fine. So, in Texas, always remember to turn off your car when you’re not in it.
No driving with headphones in France
France has a law that prohibits drivers from wearing any type of headphones or earbuds while driving. This includes both wired and wireless devices. The rule is meant to ensure drivers can hear important sounds like emergency vehicle sirens or car horns. Even if you’re not listening to anything, just wearing headphones while driving is illegal. If you’re caught, you could face a fine and points on your license. So, when driving in France, keep your ears free of any devices.
Don’t smoke with kids in the car in Australia
In Australia, it’s illegal to smoke in a car if there’s a child under 16 present. This law exists in all states and territories of the country. It’s meant to protect children from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke in the confined space of a car. The fines for breaking this law can be quite hefty. Even if the windows are down, you’re still not allowed to smoke. So, if you’re driving with kids in Australia, keep the cigarettes put away.
No eating or applying makeup while driving in South Africa
South Africa has strict laws about distracted driving, including a ban on eating or applying makeup while behind the wheel. These activities are seen as taking your attention away from the road. The law is meant to reduce accidents caused by distracted driving. If you’re caught eating a snack or touching up your lipstick while driving, you could face a fine. It’s best to do these things before you start your journey or when you’re safely parked.
Don’t drive a dirty car in Belarus
Belarus has a law that makes it illegal to drive a dirty car. This rule isn’t just about appearances – it’s also about safety. A dirty car can be harder to see, especially in bad weather or at night. The law requires drivers to keep their cars clean, particularly the license plates and lights. You might get pulled over and fined if your vehicle is too dirty.
No driving in reverse on a highway in Arizona, USA
In Arizona, it’s against the law to drive in reverse on a highway. This might seem like common sense, but it’s actually written into the state’s traffic laws. The rule exists because driving backward on a high-speed road is extremely dangerous. Even if you’ve missed your exit, you cannot back up. If caught doing this, you could face a serious fine and points on your license. So, if you miss your turn in Arizona, keep going forward and find a safe place to turn around.
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