These bizarre road rules are catching tourists completely off guard
Navigating the rules of the road in your own country can be challenging enough, but when you venture abroad, you might encounter some truly bizarre driving regulations that seem almost too strange to be real. From fines calculated based on your bank balance to laws about what you can wear behind the wheel, international driving rules can catch even the most experienced motorists completely off guard.
William Fletcher, MBE, CEO of Car.co.uk, the UK’s comprehensive automotive platform, has compiled some of the world’s most unusual driving laws that could land unsuspecting British drivers in hot water. “Brits tend to assume that common sense and basic driving etiquette will see them through when driving overseas, but some countries have regulations that would seem absolutely bonkers to us,” says Fletcher.
The rules listed here mostly aren’t just quirky local customs, but in many cases enforceable laws with real consequences, including substantial fines, penalty points, and even vehicle confiscation. Here are the most eye-watering examples from around the globe.
The World’s Most Bizarre Driving Rules
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Fines Based on Your Wealth – Switzerland
In Switzerland, speeding fines aren’t a fixed amount, and instead are calculated based on your income and wealth. This means that while a regular driver might pay a few hundred Swiss francs, millionaires have been hit with fines exceeding £80,000 for the same offence.
“The logic is that a £200 fine means nothing to someone earning millions, but it’s devastating to someone on minimum wage,” explains Fletcher. “British drivers should be extra careful in these countries because what seems like a minor speed bump could cost you the price of a luxury car.”
The consequences can amount to more than money, since repeat offenders face driving bans and even prison time for serious violations.
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Camels Have Right of Way – UAE
While not written into law, giving camels right of way on UAE roads is a widely observed cultural practice that drivers ignore at their peril. This is due to the historical and cultural significance of camels in the Emirates.
While there’s no specific fine, drivers who don’t respect this custom may find themselves facing anger from locals.
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Running Out of Fuel Is Illegal – Germany (Autobahn)
On Germany’s famous Autobahn, running out of petrol is considered a traffic violation. You’ll face fines of between €30-70 (roughly £25-60), and if you have to walk along the motorway to get fuel, that’s another violation with additional penalties.
“German efficiency extends to their driving laws,” notes Fletcher. “They consider running out of fuel as poor planning that endangers other drivers. British motorists who are used to cutting it fine with their fuel gauge need to think twice when on the Autobahn.”
Emergency services will also charge you for rescue services, potentially adding hundreds more to your bill.
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Muddy Driving Leads to Fines – Japan
In Japan, splashing water or mud onto pedestrians while driving is considered both poor social etiquette and a driving violation. Japan’s “muddy driving” laws mean you can be fined up to 7000 yen (just over £35), though you won’t lose licence points. For this specific offence, they could face additional charges depending on the circumstances.
“What makes this particularly expensive for British tourists is that the fine is just the beginning,” explains Fletcher. “You could be liable for compensation including cleaning costs, damaged personal belongings, legal fees, and even lost wages if the victim has to take time off work.”
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No Fuzzy Dice or Air Fresheners Dangling from Mirrors – Parts of Australia
Several Australian states prohibit anything hanging from your rear-view mirror that could obstruct your vision. This includes air fresheners, fuzzy dice, graduation tassels, or religious symbols.
Fines range from $100 (around £47) in Western Australia to $3,200 (over £1,500) in Australian Capital Territory, and police can issue on-the-spot penalties. “What most Brits see as harmless car decoration, Australian authorities often view as a safety hazard,” Fletcher explains.
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Shirtless Driving? Don’t Do It – Thailand
In Thailand, driving without a shirt is viewed as inappropriate and sometimes disrespectful, and can result in fines of 100 to 500 baht (around £2-12). The law applies to both men and women and extends to wearing inappropriate clothing while driving.
Police regularly enforce this during routine traffic stops, and the fine doubles if you’re also found violating other traffic rules simultaneously.
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No Eating or Drinking While Driving – Cyprus
Cyprus has strict laws against consuming any food or beverages while driving, including water. Police consider any hand-held consumption a form of distracted driving, and violations can result in an average penalty of €150 (almost £130), since it is mandatory to have both hands on the steering wheel.
“British drivers are usually blissfully unaware that their innocent coffee or sandwich could land them in legal trouble,” warns Fletcher. “Even drinking water at traffic lights counts as a violation.”
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Dirty Car? That Might Cost You – Russia
Russian traffic police can fine drivers between 800 and 2,000 rubles (around £7-19) for having an excessively dirty vehicle, particularly if number plates aren’t clearly visible. During the winter months, this law is strictly enforced due to road salt and slush.
Vehicle impoundment is possible in extreme cases, which could leave tourists stranded until they can clean their car and pay all associated fees.
Tips for Checking Driving Laws Before Travelling
Before driving abroad, Fletcher recommends checking with your destination country’s official transport ministry website, consulting your car rental company about local regulations, and reviewing your travel insurance coverage for traffic violations. Embassies also usually provide driving guides for British citizens.
William Fletcher, MBE, CEO of Car.co.uk, commented: “The key to avoiding these bizarre fines is preparation. Don’t assume that what’s legal in Britain applies everywhere else. I always tell drivers to spend at least 30 minutes researching local driving laws before collecting a rental car. Check official government websites rather than travel blogs, because the penalties can be genuinely life-changing.
“Contact your car rental company directly and ask about local quirks. They deal with confused tourists daily and know exactly what catches people out. Also, review your travel insurance policy because some don’t cover traffic fines, leaving you completely exposed. A little homework can save you thousands and prevent your holiday from turning into a legal nightmare.”