The holiday season is upon us, and most of us are looking forward to getting out of our hometowns and doing some sightseeing on different roads, places and perhaps even in different countries. Hiring a car or camper around the world might seem like an easy and adventurous addition to your travel plans – but its important to know that almost every country has its own unique driving laws that you’ll need to follow.
“What might seem unusual to Australian drivers can be seen as completely normal in another country,” said Bastian from Travellers Autobarn.
“You might need to give way to certain animals or check your outfit before getting behind a wheel. You’ll be liable if you break any driving laws the country you’re travelling in enforces.”
No topless driving in Thailand
Thailand is not the place to exercise your right to remove your top in warm weather, especially when driving. If you’re caught with your top off, no matter your gender, you could be liable to a fine or other form of prosecution.
Thailand is a generally conservative society, so public displays of bare skin are considered inappropriate. It might also be considered disrespectful to the Buddha, as Buddhism is the main religion in this region.
The penalty for driving shirtless in Thailand is typically a small fine of around 200 baht (approx. $9 AUD). While it’s not a huge fine, it’s still best to abide by the law and respect the country you’re travelling in.
Don’t slam car doors in Switzerland
Switzerland enforces a statutory “Nachtruhe” (night rest), which applies from 10 pm to 6 am. This includes a law that means it’s illegal to slam car doors after 10 at night. While it might seem a little steep to be fined for accidentally closing a door too loud, plenty of people have been caught out on this one.
Art. 684 of Switzerland’s Civil Code states: ‘Everyone is obliged to refrain from any excessive impact on their neighbours’ property and that any damaging or unwarranted impact – including noise – is prohibited.’
There isn’t much information on penalties for violations of Nachtruhe, but if you’re caught making noise within this quiet time, neighbours are within their rights to make a complaint about you.
Give way to camels in Nevada
Camels are considered an important status symbol in Nevada, USA, and must be respected at all times. This includes when you’re driving. A law states that if you see a camel crossing the road in front of you, you must give way and wait until it’s safe before driving again.
This law dates back to when camels were used as pack animals in the American West. Again, there’s no information on what would happen if you got caught not giving way to camels in Nevada, but it’s best not to risk it!
Never run out of fuel on the Autobahn in Germany
The Autobahn is a network of highways that runs throughout Germany, making getting around much quicker and easier for most drivers. It’s considered a transcendent driving experience that many travel solely to experience.
However, it’s not all fun and games, as you’ll be breaking the law if you run out of fuel on the Autobahn. It’s illegal to stop unnecessarily on the Autobahn. As fuel is considered the driver’s responsibility and running out of it is negligent, you’ll still be liable for a penalty.
The law states: ‘Drivers may face fines and up to six months’ suspension, should it come to a stop that was deemed unnecessary by the police. In some cases (if there is a direct danger to life and limb or property e.g. cars and highway infrastructure), it may also be considered a crime, and the driver could receive a prison sentence (up to 5 years).’
Don’t eat or drink when driving in Cyprus
According to lawmakers in Cyprus, eating and drinking while driving is dangerous enough to warrant fines and penalties. The law states that you should always have two hands on the steering wheel when driving, so if you need to replenish your body with a meal or drink, make sure you pull over first.
The fine for being caught eating or drinking in Cyprus is €150 (approx. $247 AUD). For a second-time offence, the fine is increased to €300 (approx $494 AUD).
No loud music or singing when driving in the UK
While you’re within your rights to listen to music or the radio quietly when driving in the UK, if the police deem the volume too loud, you may be fined and penalised. The Highway Code details this as an attempt to minimise distractions while driving to keep you and others on the road safe.
If you’re caught playing your music too loud in the UK, you might be issued a fine of £100 (approx. $200 AUD) and 3 points on your license.
Don’t drive wearing shoes without socks in Spain
You should always check your footwear before getting behind the wheel in Spain, as driving without socks is considered unsafe. Unsafe footwear includes flip-flops, barefoot shoes, or even trainers without socks, so make sure you pack enough!
Spain’s General Directorate of Traffic (GDT) makes it clear that this guidance is heavily enforced and could land you a fine of €200 (approx $329 AUD) if you’re caught driving unsafely.
Don’t leave your car unlocked in parts of Australia
The Australian Road Rules state: ‘Once you’re more than three metres away from your vehicle, the engine must be off, the ignition key removed, and all doors and windows closed and securely locked.’
This rule is enforced to deter thieves and improve vehicle security, so it’s in your best interest to follow it.
Not removing your key from the ignition can land you with fines starting at $108, with a maximum penalty of $2200. Leaving the vehicle unsecured can result in further penalties, again starting at $108 and maxing out at $2200.
Never splash pedestrians when driving in Japan
When driving in the rain, you must take extra precautions to avoid splashing passers-by. Act 71 of the Road Traffic Act details:
‘Drivers must limit their speed or take other measures to avoid splashing pedestrians with water, mud, or other materials.’
Penalties include a potential fine of up to 20,000 yen (approximately $206 AUD). You might also be held responsible for compensating the victim for the cost of cleaning their clothes and any damages to their belongings.
