Crazy Driving Laws from Around the World (9 Photos)

A personal car is no longer a luxury—it is simply a daily necessity. And like any routine part of life, driving across different countries comes with its own unique set of rules. Here are some of the strangest traffic laws from around the globe.





Denmark



In Denmark, you are strictly forbidden from starting your car before performing a complete vehicle check. And by "complete," Danish law means you must look underneath the car to ensure there isn't a child sleeping there. What a wholesome place.

Thailand





In Thailand, traffic police can fine you for driving shirtless. Thai law has zero tolerance for bare torsos behind the wheel, whether you are a man or a woman.

Mexico



Mexico appears to be the only country that applied pure common sense by banning women from applying makeup while driving. And to keep things fair, men are banned from shaving behind the wheel.

USA



Many traffic laws in the US are hopelessly outdated, yet remain on the books. In Pennsylvania, for instance, a driver is required to cover or conceal their car if it frightens a passing horse.



Over in Alabama, one unusual law actually makes a lot of sense: driving barefoot is strictly prohibited. This rule wasn't created out of nowhere—it was prompted by an incident where a driver nearly lost his life because he couldn't step on an overheated brake pedal in time.

And as a bonus: in that same state of Alabama, it is explicitly illegal to drive with your eyes closed.

Philippines



The Philippines tackles gridlock in its own unique way. Cars with license plates ending in 1 or 2 are banned from the roads on Mondays, 3 and 4 on Tuesdays, 5 and 6 on Wednesdays, 7 and 8 on Thursdays, and 9 and 0 on Fridays. On weekends, everyone is free to drive. Simple as that.

Select European Countries



In France, Finland, and Spain, drivers are banned from using radar detectors. Meanwhile, in Luxembourg, Belgium, and Sweden, a penchant for these gadgets can land you behind bars, with prison sentences ranging from three months to eight years.

Austria



Austria has a law that drivers find rather frustrating: dashcams are officially banned nationwide. Operating these devices is legally treated as an invasion of privacy.