Adjustment in a new country takes time. Things may entirely be different from what you are used to in your native country. Additionally, every country has their own set of rules which every citizen and visitor should follow. One of the major adjustments one has to make is learning the driving rules.
Commuting is a regular task and many people prefer to drive their own vehicles. While most of the rules like the restriction on driving under alcohol influence or using the phone etc remain the same, there may be some odd rules too. We have compiled a list of some weird car rules from around the world that you might not be aware of.
Adherence to Driving Rules
Driving rules are set by authorities to ensure smooth and safe traffic flow. Car rules are generally all the same around the globe but a few countries have some additional regulations. For instance, the driving rules in the UAE may differ to some extent from a European country.
Weather and climatic conditions, a country’s traditions etc can all contribute to the rules set by the government. In either case, it is essential to follow the rules. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines and imprisonment in some cases.
Weird Car Rules Around the World
Most of the car rules such as driving in the fast lane or on the highway are pretty simple to interpret. Some weird car rules, on the other hand, could be the first time you hear of them. Let’s go through some of the strangest driving laws around the world:
MANILA – DRIVING RESTRICTIONS BASED ON THE LAST DIGIT OF NUMBER PLATES
The capital city of the Philippines, Manila has a rule called ‘Colour Coding’. The colour coding rule has nothing to do with car colours. Rather, it is based on the last digit of the car’s number plate. If your car’s number ends with a 1 or 2, you won’t be allowed to take your car on certain roads within the hours of 7:00 am to 7:00 pm on Mondays.
Similarly, vehicles with number plates ending with a 3 or 4 are restricted on Tuesdays and so on. Weekends are however free from the restrictions. The initiative is taken to combat heavy traffic conditions in the city.
GERMANY – FINE FOR RUNNING OUT OF PETROL ON THE AUTOBAHN
Different highways are famous for their advanced structures like the major highways in the UAE. While some highways are famous for their structures, Autobahn, the highway system in Germany, is also known for one of its weird car rules.
Almost half the highway system is unrestricted and drivers can travel at any speed but a stationary vehicle can cause trouble. Stopping your vehicle is illegal unless there’s a real emergency. Running out of petrol is considered driver’s negligence rather than an emergency. Furthermore, this act is also punishable by a fine.
NIGER – NO DRIVING BEFORE YOU TURN 23
Most countries have kept the minimum driving age to 18. For instance, you need to be at least 18 years of age to get a driving licence in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other cities of the UAE. However, in Niger, a country in West Africa, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 23 to drive. The rule also makes Niger the place with the highest legal driving age.
CYPRUS – KEEP BOTH HANDS ON THE STEERING
Eating and drinking while driving is punishable by fines in several countries. In Cyprus, a country in the Middle East, it is mandatory to keep both hands on the steering at all times. It is also prohibited to eat or drink (even water) while driving. Going against this law in Cyprus is punishable by a fine.
SERBIA – NO DRUNK FRONT-SEAT PASSENGERS
Drunk driving is perhaps one of the biggest causes of accidents. It is also prohibited in the majority of countries. However, Serbia goes a step forward as the country prohibits drunk passengers in the front seat. It is among the weird car rules as it’s usually the drivers in most countries who are bound to be sober while driving.
Drunk passengers can be a distraction for drivers and the end result could be an accident. The step is taken to avoid such mishaps on the road.
PORTUGAL – PORTABLE ATMS IN PATROL CARS
Traffic fines are not always paid on spot. Some cities even offer relaxation like the discount on traffic fines in Abu Dhabi and other cities of the UAE. However, many patrol vehicles in Portugal have portable ATMs. People who are fined can make use of the ATMs and pay the fines upfront.
AUSTRIA – DON’T HONK THE HORN
No honking in Austria is also among the weird driving laws from around the world. It is prohibited to honk the horn in the capital city, Vienna. Additionally, the no-honking rule also applies to places near hospitals.
ALABAMA – DON’T DRIVE WITH A BLINDFOLD
This is among some of the unusual driving rules across the world. In Alabama, USA, you are not allowed to drive blindfolded. Some enthusiasts choose to go beyond limits and the law helps people from getting involved in accidents.
ITALY – KEEP THE HEADLIGHTS ON AT ALL TIMES
In Italy, it is mandatory to keep the headlights on at all times. Whether it’s sunny outside or at any time of the day, headlights must be turned on. The rule is set to promote visibility and road safety. Whatever type of headlight you choose to have, turn it on when driving in Italy.
Other than these, some of the weird car rules have been overturned. For instance, the 50-kilogram potato rule in Western Australia. People who were a member of the country’s Potato Corporation were the only ones allowed to carry more than 50 kgs of potatoes.
These were some of the weird car rules from around the world. Every country has a set of rules which are set to promote safe and sound driving. The rules must be followed to avoid any conflicts with the law. Additionally, go through the UAE driving rules and regulations FAQs to get all your traffic-related questions answered.
The world-class infrastructure and implementation of law make the UAE one of the best destinations. You can explore the Emirates in a pre-owned vehicle as it is a feasible option. Check out these used cars for sale in the UAE and select from a wide variety of vehicles listed.
Moreover, for figures that make sense, check out UAE’s automotive records and see some interesting records.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for car-related rules and more.
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