The International Drivers Association is shedding some light on some unique driving laws in the U.S. It says while some of these laws might seem quirky, outlandish, or even humorous, they are nevertheless part of the legal framework that drivers are expected to understand and follow. Here are some of the most unusual driving laws it says that you can encounter on American roads.
No Honking at Sandwich Shops: Little Rock, Arkansas
Believe it or not, it's illegal to honk your car horn at a sandwich shop after 9 pm in Little Rock, Arkansas. The reasons for this law are not completely clear, but it may have been established to preserve the peace and tranquility of dining establishments during the evening hours. Failure to adhere to this rule could result in a fine.
No Scavenger Hunts: Clarendon Hills, Illinois
In Clarendon Hills, Illinois, scavenger hunts involving motor vehicles are illegal. While scavenger hunts are popular and often seen as harmless fun, it seems that local authorities are concerned about the distractions and potential traffic violations they could cause.
Mandatory "Splash Guards" for Dirty Roads: Minnetonka, Minnesota
In Minnetonka, Minnesota, vehicles driving on dirty roads are required to have mud flaps or "splash guards" to prevent debris from flying onto other cars. While this may seem like a sensible rule, the specificity of the law sets it apart from more general road safety regulations.
No Gorillas Allowed: Massachusetts
This law isn't confined to a specific city but rather applies to the whole state. In Massachusetts, it's illegal to operate a car with a gorilla in the back seat. How and why this law was passed is somewhat of a mystery, but it's on the books, and you could technically be fined for breaking it.
No Running Out of Gas: Youngstown, Ohio
In Youngstown, Ohio, it's illegal to run out of gas. The law may seem illogical at first glance, but it is intended to discourage negligent driving practices that could put both the driver and other road users at risk. Running out of gas could cause traffic delays and possibly result in dangerous situations, like being stranded in a busy intersection.
Dirty Tires Prohibited: Minnetonka, Minnesota
Again from Minnetonka, this law prohibits driving a vehicle with "dirty tires." It seems that Minnetonka takes its street cleanliness very seriously. The law may have been implemented to reduce the debris and dirt that cars can bring onto public roads, particularly from unpaved surfaces.
Don’t Tie Your Dog to the Roof: Anchorage, Alaska
In Anchorage, it's illegal to tether a dog to the roof of a vehicle. While this law might seem like common sense for most pet owners, its very existence indicates that it was a problem at some point. Violating this law not only incurs a fine but is also considered animal cruelty.
The "No Blasting" Rule: University City, Missouri
In University City, Missouri, it's illegal to "squeal" or "peel" out. This law aims to discourage drivers from burning rubber or doing other high-speed maneuvers that could lead to dangerous situations.
Photo Bilanol/Shutterstock.com.