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Discover the World's Quirkiest Driving Laws: 9 Fun Facts That Will Make You Look Twice!

illustration of driving-laws
Get ready to buckle up and cruise through some amusing and unexpected driving laws that you never knew existed, and might just make you double-check your road rulebook!

1. Clean License Plates in Russia

In Russia, it turns out washing more than just your mouth out with soap might save you a fine: According to their motoring rules, it's only illegal to drive a vehicle with a dirty number plate where the registration number is not visible. Though some police may try to fine drivers for dirty cars, the law specifically cites dirty number plates as the violation. As awareness of this rule has grown through various media channels, Russian drivers are making sure their license plates stay squeaky clean to avoid any unnecessary run-ins with the law.
Source => carwale.com

2. No Ducks on Heads in Alabama

In the "Quack-alama" state of Alabama, where even the ducks know the way to migrate, driving with your feathery friend perched atop your head is a fowl play waiting to happen: In fact, it is illegal to drive in Alabama with a live duck on your head, as such distractions can lead to dangerous situations on the road. So, shake your tail feathers away from the driver's seat, and ensure a safe and duck-free driving experience!
Source => toyotaofdothan.com

3. Color Coding in Metro Manila

Ever feel like you're stuck in an automotive game of Duck, Duck, Goose? Well, that's probably because you're not in Metro Manila, where they have a traffic-solver called "Color Coding": Cars with license plates ending in 1 or 2 aren't allowed on the roads from 7 AM to 7 PM on Mondays, and similarly for other days of the week. Foreign drivers beware — you don't want to be the odd duck out, so make sure to check with local contacts or car rental agencies before you hit the roads of this wild Filipino traffic pond!
Source => stupidlaws.com

4. Shoe Rules in Spain

Feet don't fail me now, or should I say, footwear: In Spain, wearing the wrong shoes when driving can result in an €80 fine! Drivers are recommended to wear shoes with soles less than 10mm thick, good grip, and ample ankle movement for easier pedal control. Beware of flip-flops, as they may slip off or cause safety hazards. So, next time you're cruising through España, make sure your feet are adequately dressed for the pedal party.
Source => theolivepress.es

No Stopping on Autobahn

5. No Stopping on Autobahn

Driving on the Autobahn? Don't U-turn a blind eye to the gas meter, or you'll jump on the no-stop bandwagon: Stopping, parking, u-turning, or backing up on the Autobahn is illegal, and while running out of gas isn't, it could lead you to commit the unholy traffic sin of stopping, which is also illegal. Keep the good times rolling by ensuring your tank is full and spirits high!
Source => schumachercargo.com

6. Pets Must Be Restrained in Massachusetts

It's a doggone dangerous world behind the wheel: In Massachusetts, motorists can be penalized for driving with an unrestrained pet in the car, as even well-behaved furry companions can cause distractions and accidents, leading to paws-itively disastrous situations!
Source => massachusettsinjurylawyerblog.net

7. Strict Alcohol Limits in Cyprus

When in Cyprus, hold your horses on those Dionysian revels behind the wheel: the nation enforces a strict 0.21 permille blood alcohol concentration limit, doling out fines starting at €200 and the potential for even more severe penalties, all depending upon just how "spirited" your driving may have been.
Source => localrent.com

8. Courteous Door Closing in Switzerland

Switzerland: the land of chocolate, cheese, and... courteous car door closing? That's right, folks: While it's a common myth that slamming car doors is illegal in Switzerland, the truth is that the Swiss are simply being their considerate selves and avoiding creating unnecessary noise pollution in public spaces.
Source => enjuris.com

9. No Swearing allowed in Rockville, Maryland

Don't let your inner Shakespeare run amok at the wheel; your foul-mouthed soliloquies may land you in trouble: In Rockville, Maryland, disorderly expletives or obscene words used on or near a street, sidewalk, or highway are technically considered a misdemeanor offense, though this outdated and rarely enforced law remains as a quirky relic in the annals of driving regulations.
Source => dcmdlaw.com

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