The strangest laws for drivers around the world

Driving a car is something completely normal - rules, signs, speed limits. But if you set out to travel the world, you may encounter laws that sound like a joke. Here are 15 of the strangest examples that prove that anything is possible on the road.

1. Denmark – check that there is no one under the car

The law states that before you drive off, you must make sure that there is no one lying under the car. It sounds absurd, but apparently it used to be a problem. Today it is more of a curious formality, but if you want to be on the safe side, take a good look.

2. Germany – no running out of fuel on the motorway

There is no speed limit, but there is another trap: if you run out of fuel on the motorway, the fine is substantial. The logic is simple – "you have no right to endanger other drivers with your own carelessness."

3. Japan – flip-flops are prohibited

In the land of the rising sun, it is illegal to drive in flip-flops or shoes that can slip off. Imagine – you hit the brakes and your slipper flies under the seat. That's why the Japanese don't take any chances.

4. Cyprus – no food or water behind the wheel

Taking out a bottle of water while driving? Fine. A cup of coffee? Even worse. In Cyprus, they believe that any distraction can be dangerous, even thirst in 40-degree heat.

5. Russia – the car must be clean

Not only the license plates, but the entire car must be clean. A dirty car can result in a fine because it is considered a hazard – especially if the license plate is not clearly visible.

6. Costa Rica – alcohol is permitted... to a certain extent

You can drive with a beer in your hand – it sounds like a resort advertisement. However, the law only permits a minimal blood alcohol level. In other words, you will not be arrested if you take a sip, but you will not be forgiven if you overindulge.

7. Switzerland – washing your car on Sunday is prohibited

If you decide to wash your car on Sunday, you risk a fine. The reason is respect for the "day of rest." Sunday is sacred there – and not for scrubbing rims.

8. Singapore – chewing gum + steering wheel = problem

Singapore is known for its draconian laws. Even chewing gum is restricted because it is considered littering and a distraction. If you ever drive there, leave the packet in your pocket.

9. Philippines – driving according to license plate numbers

If your license plate number ends with a certain digit, you are not allowed to drive on certain days of the week. This is how the authorities try to reduce traffic in Manila, although in practice it often creates more headaches.

10. Saudi Arabia – historical ban on women
Until 2018, women were not allowed to drive. Today, the ban has been lifted, but for a long time it was one of the strangest and most controversial laws in the world.

11. Australia – hay must be tied down
In some states, it is illegal to transport hay if it is not properly secured. This is because falling bales on the road are not particularly safe.

12. South Africa – animals have the right of way
If you encounter a cow, goat, or even an elephant on the road, you must stop. The law is clear: animals have the right of way.

13. Italy – cats rule the road
In some regions, cats have the right to cross the road whenever they want. If you don't wait for them, you risk a fine. It seems that in Italy, cats not only walk wherever they want, but also have the legal right to do so.

14. Thailand – always wear a shirt behind the wheel
Driving without a shirt in Thailand is illegal. Even if it's 40 degrees outside, you have to be dressed – otherwise you'll pay for "indecent behavior."

15. USA (Alaska) – dogs are not luggage
The law prohibits tying dogs to the roof of a car. It sounds logical, but apparently someone once decided to try it, leading to such a ban.

Driving around the world is a bit like entering a new game—the rules change depending on the location. In Germany, you have to think about fuel, in Japan – about your shoes, and in Cyprus – even about a sip of water. 
But one thing is certain: the rules always have their logic... no matter how strange they may seem.
So next time you get behind the wheel, remember: in Bulgaria, you may get angry at the potholes and traffic jams, but at least no one will fine you if you drink coffee at a traffic light.