Traffic laws exist to keep roads safe, but some countries have taken them to bizarre extremes. From bans on dirty cars to laws about carrying breathalyzers, here are the weirdest traffic rules around the world that you won’t believe exist.
Traffic laws are meant to bring order and safety to the roads, but in some places, they take a strange turn. Whether it’s unusual regulations about what you must carry in your car or outright bizarre restrictions, drivers worldwide have to navigate some truly peculiar laws. Let’s explore some of the strangest traffic rules from different corners of the globe.
1. No Dirty Cars Allowed in Russia
If you’re driving in Moscow, make sure your car is spotless. Russian authorities have imposed fines for driving a dirty vehicle, with penalties reaching up to 2,000 rubles (about $30). The reasoning behind this law is to maintain the city’s cleanliness and prevent obscured license plates. However, the definition of "dirty" is subjective, so drivers often find themselves at the mercy of traffic officers’ interpretations.
2. You Must Have a Breathalyzer in Your Car in France
In France, it is mandatory for all drivers to carry a personal breathalyzer in their vehicle. This law, introduced in 2012, was meant to curb drunk driving and encourage self-testing before getting behind the wheel. While the government later suspended fines for non-compliance, the requirement remains, and many motorists still carry one just to be safe.
3. No Running Out of Gas on the Autobahn in Germany
Germany’s legendary Autobahn is famous for its lack of speed limits in certain areas, but there’s one rule that catches many by surprise. Running out of gas is considered a driver’s fault and is punishable by law. Since stopping on the Autobahn is extremely dangerous, authorities strictly enforce this rule to prevent unnecessary road hazards. If you’re cruising down at high speeds, make sure your fuel gauge doesn’t hit empty.
4. No Splashing Pedestrians in Japan
In Japan, drivers can be fined if they splash pedestrians with water while driving through puddles. This law ensures that people walking on the streets remain dry, especially during the rainy season. The fine for violators can go up to 7,000 yen ($50), and authorities enforce it rigorously during heavy downpours.
5. No Eating or Drinking While Driving in Cyprus
Cyprus takes distracted driving seriously, banning drivers from eating or drinking anything—including water—while behind the wheel. The law is aimed at reducing accidents caused by distractions, with fines reaching €85 ($92) for those caught in the act. If you’re planning a road trip in Cyprus, make sure to pull over before taking a sip of your coffee.
6. You Can’t Drive Blindfolded in Alabama, USA
While most traffic laws make sense, some seem to state the obvious. In Alabama, it is illegal to drive while blindfolded. This rule may seem unnecessary, but it’s still part of the official traffic regulations. While no one is likely attempting this dangerous stunt, the fact that it had to be written into law makes you wonder what inspired it.
7. In the Philippines, Certain License Plates Are Banned on Certain Days
Metro Manila enforces a rule called "number coding," where certain cars are banned from driving on specific days based on the last digit of their license plate. This regulation was introduced to reduce traffic congestion, but it has also led to some creative workarounds. Some residents have purchased second cars with different plate numbers just to bypass the restriction.
8. Drivers Must Check for Sleeping People Under Their Car in Denmark
Denmark has one of the strangest pre-driving requirements. Before starting their vehicle, drivers are legally required to check under their car for sleeping individuals. While this may seem unusual, the law reportedly originated as a way to protect homeless people or animals seeking shelter under parked cars, particularly during cold weather.
9. Headlights Must Be On at All Times in Sweden
In Sweden, drivers must keep their headlights on at all times, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions. This rule, implemented for safety reasons, applies even on bright sunny days. Studies have shown that having lights on reduces accidents, making this quirky rule one of the more practical ones on the list.
10. Monkeys Have the Right of Way in Thailand
In some parts of Thailand, particularly near temples and tourist sites, monkeys have the legal right of way on roads. Drivers are required to stop and let them pass, as harming these sacred animals can result in fines or even legal trouble. This law is taken seriously, as monkeys frequently cross roads in search of food and interaction with visitors.