Craziest Traffic Laws Around the World: Unbelievable Rules That Still Exist

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Every country has its own approach to traffic laws, reflecting its unique culture, history, and priorities when it comes to road safety and public order. While some rules make perfect sense—like speed limits or stopping at red lights—others range from bizarre to downright hilarious. These laws might seem strange to outsiders, but they’re real and enforceable in their respective countries. Whether you’re a globetrotter or just curious about how the world handles driving, these traffic laws will leave you amazed, amused, and maybe even a little confused.

Here’s a look at some of the craziest traffic laws from around the world that you won’t believe actually exist.

1. No Driving a Dirty Car – Russia

In Russia, you can be fined for driving a dirty car—yes, you read that right. While the law doesn’t specify exactly how dirty is too dirty, enforcement can vary from region to region. The rationale behind it is maintaining a clean and presentable urban environment. However, this law often ends up being used as a tool for spot fines, especially if your license plate is unreadable.

2. You Must Always Have a Breathalyzer in Your Car – France

In France, all drivers are required by law to carry a personal breathalyzer kit in their vehicles. This law was introduced to encourage self-testing before driving and to combat alcohol-related accidents. Although the fine for not carrying one has been suspended, the law technically remains in place, and police can still check whether you’re following the rule.

3. Camels Have the Right of Way – United Arab Emirates

In the deserts of the UAE, camels are not only cultural symbols but also legally protected road users. If you’re driving through rural areas or near camel farms, know that camels have the legal right of way. Harming one in a collision could result in heavy fines or even jail time.

4. It’s Illegal to Splash Pedestrians – Japan

In Japan, being considerate is part of the national culture, and that extends to drivers as well. Splashing pedestrians by driving through puddles is not just rude—it’s illegal. Fines can be issued on the spot. Japanese traffic law emphasizes respect and safety for all road users, not just drivers.

5. No Shirtless Driving – Thailand

Thailand bans driving without a shirt, regardless of gender or weather. The law is part of public decency regulations. While it might not be heavily enforced in beach areas, it’s still technically illegal and could result in a fine if you’re stopped by police.

6. You Can’t Drive Blindfolded – Alabama, USA

In what seems like an unnecessary clarification, the U.S. state of Alabama has a law that specifically prohibits driving while blindfolded. While it’s obviously unsafe (and unlikely anyone would try this), the law exists—possibly as a response to dares or stunts attempted in the past.

7. No Drunk Riding a Horse – Colorado, USA

In Colorado, USA, you can’t ride a horse while under the influence of alcohol. It might sound like a loophole to avoid DUI charges, but the law ensures that operating any form of transportation—animal or mechanical—while impaired is illegal.

8. You Must Check for Children Under the Car – Denmark

Before starting your car in Denmark, drivers are legally required to check underneath their vehicles for children or small animals. While this might sound overly cautious, it stems from a strong national commitment to road safety. Though rarely enforced, it serves as a reminder to stay vigilant.

9. Only Drive on Certain Days – Manila, Philippines

Due to chronic traffic congestion, Manila introduced a scheme called “number coding” where cars with certain license plate numbers are restricted from driving on specific days of the week. The goal is to reduce the number of vehicles on the road and ease gridlock. Violating this law can lead to fines and even impounding.

10. Keep Your Headlights On – Sweden (Even During the Day)

In Sweden, drivers are required to keep their headlights on at all times—even during daylight hours. The idea is to increase visibility in a country known for long periods of darkness and gray weather. This law is also common in other Nordic countries.

11. No Eating or Drinking While Driving – Cyprus

In Cyprus, it is against the law to eat or drink anything while driving. That includes sipping water. Authorities argue that even minor distractions can lead to major accidents. While this law might seem harsh, it emphasizes the importance of staying fully focused behind the wheel.

12. Don’t Run Out of Gas on the Autobahn – Germany

Running out of gas on the German autobahn is illegal. Authorities see it as a form of preventable negligence. Since the autobahn has sections with no speed limit, a car stopped due to lack of fuel becomes a major safety hazard. If you’re caught, you could face a fine and potentially even points on your license.

13. You Must Carry Spare Glasses – Spain

If you wear prescription glasses in Spain, you’re legally required to carry a spare pair in your car. This law aims to ensure that drivers are never without proper vision correction. Failure to comply could result in a fine if you’re stopped during a traffic check.

14. Watch Out for Elephants – India

In some parts of rural India, especially in Kerala and Assam, drivers are required to give way to elephants. These massive animals still roam highways in certain regions, and they’re legally recognized as road users. Harming or disturbing them can bring severe penalties under animal protection laws.

15. Women Can’t Drive in Some Areas – Historical Laws

While Saudi Arabia lifted its ban on women drivers in 2018, it’s worth noting that until then, it was one of the only countries in the world where women were legally barred from driving. This law gained international criticism and has since changed, marking a significant milestone in gender rights in the region.

Conclusion

Whether driven by safety, culture, or just old-fashioned bureaucracy, traffic laws around the world can range from the sensible to the surreal. For travelers and drivers alike, it’s always a good idea to research local driving laws before hitting the road in a foreign country. Not only will it keep you out of trouble, but it’ll also help you better understand the unique ways different societies approach driving and road safety.

So next time you’re behind the wheel abroad, remember: that puddle splash or missing breathalyzer kit might just cost you more than you’d expect. Safe (and legal) travels!

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