Five of The Worlds Most Bizarre Driving Laws

If you’ve been on holiday recently, perhaps hiring estate cars so you can fully soak up foreign cultures, you may have been intrigued or downright baffled by some of the customs of drivers from other nations. Sure, there are some fairly unorthodox laws out there, such as being penalised for driving too slowly in California, but what about the legislations that just seem insane? Here are five of the world’s most bizarre driving laws.

1.    Curb the road rage next time you’re driving in Maryland

There can be all sorts of things that get our blood boiling when we’re on the road. Perhaps there are some irresponsible commuters using gas-guzzling 4x4s instead of more environmentally-friendly alternatives such as hybrid cars. However, irrespective of what is driving you up the wall, you’d better be extra careful using foul language as there can be consequences.

Currently, if you are heard to shout expletives while in earshot of another driver, pedestrian, cyclist or worse, a police officer, you could face an eye-watering $100 fine. Alternatively, should your language be particularly unsavoury, the maximum sentence for such an offence is three months in prison. It seems that they really do mind their manners in Maryland!

2.    Don’t find yourself in a state of undress in New York

The little-known Sag Harbor area of New York was catapulted onto the map when the local government announced that fines and imprisonment would be levied on those who were found to be dressing in their cars. Imagine the frustration of a city worker late for their meeting because their alarm didn’t go off; throwing an ironed shirt over your vest certainly won’t be an option here!

3.    Driverless cars in California have speed limits, too

We see speed limits imposed on our roads all the time, and in many cases the law is fair, clear and justified. However, one minor point of contention can be found in California’s law, with experts wondering why the maximum speed limit for a vehicle without a driver is 60mph. Indeed, shouldn’t the law be for the car not to move at all, considering that there’s nobody behind the wheel?

4.    Chivalry doesn’t come recommended in Oregon

Controversy recently hit the headlines in Oregon as one of their driving laws was unearthed: namely that car doors shouldn’t be left open for longer than necessary. As a result, there’s a lesson to be learned: watch out when trying to charm a date by helping her into your shiny new car as it could cause minor embarrassment as you have a scuffle with law enforcement officers.

Then again, it could be worse. Just remember the plight of poor Floridians who have to pay the same parking fee as motorists when they secure their friendly goat, alligator or elephant while popping into the shops for some groceries. Despite the law being resoundingly clear in these circumstances, we do remain at a loss regarding what you should do if you have another animal that you would like to park in the Sunshine State.

5.    Last but not least, be considerate when beeping the horn in Arkansas

There’s plenty of places where you can beep the horn in Arkansas after 21:00, but only one that could see you whipping out your wallet and paying a hefty fine. Is it in a residential area? No, I’m afraid not. While on a busy highway without a good reason for distracting the attention of other drivers? Try again. In this state, beeping the car horn outside any establishment that offers cold drinks and snacks is a punishable offence. For those of us who own hybrids, at least there isn’t the worry of being pulled over because the engine is too loud.