Around the world, traffic laws are implemented with the safety of drivers, passengers and pedestrians in mind. With the invention of the automobile at the turn of the century in the 1900s, it was necessary to create new laws to keep everyone safe on the road. Over time, laws were revised and created with the changing times. Well, in most places, anyway.
Every so often around the world, certain laws were set in place that are either very bizarre or make no sense whatsoever. Whatever the reason behind these laws, at one time or another, they were put in place because it was an issue of some sort- which can be a scary thought based on some laws.
Weird Traffic Laws across the Globe
Keep in mind that all traffic laws are important, and as strange as some of them may be, it’s important that you follow them or risk the consequences! That said, here are just a few weird traffic laws that are still in place around the world today:
- Let’s start with Ohio. In Youngstown, it’s illegal to run out of gas. In Canton, on the other hand, drivers are not permitted to share the road with roller skaters.
- In Oregon, feel free to drive on the sidewalks- just make sure you yield to pedestrians! Also in Oregon, you best not be found leaving your car door open longer than absolutely necessary.
- Make sure you have a designated driver in Japan- even just being a sober passenger in a car with a driver who is intoxicated is punishable by law. This seems like common sense to us- you should never, ever into a car with a driver who has had too much to drink!
- Alaska doesn’t allow you to tie your pets to the roof of your car. We really hope this law wasn’t set because this actually happened (but it sadly most likely did).
- If you’re working on a car in Denmark, you better not start it while there’s someone underneath it checking things out. That is illegal!
- Ran into a pedestrian while visiting Sarasota, Florida? Well, you’re only facing a $78 fine. It would probably be nice if you helped out with the victim’s medical bills, though…
- Keep that trash out of your car when you’re in Hilton Head, South Carolina! Storing trash in your care there is forbidden.
- Driving a dirty car in Russia can cost you a fine of up to 2,000 rubles (or about $57 US).
- Even if you think you know EXACTLY where you’re going when you’re in Alabama, don’t drive blindfolded. That’s right- driving while blindfolded in Alabama is illegal.
- Stay off the playgrounds in Georgia! Driving through a playground there is illegal and, well, obviously puts the lives of innocent children at risk.
If you’re looking for a driving school to teach you all the latest laws and rules of the road, DriveTeam offers teen driving classes and corporate driver training to drivers of all ages to ensure everyone stays as safe as possible behind the wheel. Contact us today for more information.