Traffic laws are generally straightforward, but they can be a little strange in some states. ISoldMyHouse compiled a list of the dumbest traffic laws in the U.S., ranging from painfully obvious to downright silly.
While some of these laws may sound amusing, violating them can result in real consequences, including fines and jail time.
1. Honking After 9:00 PM Is a Public Nuisance in Arkansas
In Little Rock, Arkansas, drivers are prohibited from honking their horns near establishments serving cold drinks and sandwiches after 9:00 pm. This law was implemented to curb excessive honking by drivers waiting for their late-night fast-food orders. The original time limit was 11:00 pm before it was changed in 1941. Violators of this law can be fined up to $1,000 for a first offense. It is unclear why this law was enacted, but it remains in effect to this day.
2. Drivers Cannot Change Inside Their Vehicles in Delaware
Delaware law prohibits drivers from changing clothes inside their vehicles while in public view. This means that drivers must find a private location, such as a garage or a restroom, to change their clothes. Violating this law can result in fines and penalties. It is important for drivers to be aware of this law to avoid any legal consequences. Additionally, it is recommended that drivers wear appropriate footwear while driving for safety reasons, although there is no specific law in Delaware requiring it.
3. You Can Keep (and Consume) Your Roadkill in Virginia
Under Virginia law, drivers who hit a deer or a bear are required to inform the conservation police. If the police confirm that the collision caused the animal’s death, the driver can keep the animal and use it for their own purposes, including eating it. The driver will also receive a certificate from the officer. This law applies specifically to deer and bears.
4. You are Responsible For Rescue Costs if Stuck in a Barricaded Flood Zone in Arizona
Arizona’s “Stupid Motorist Law” is a notable traffic law in the United States. The law mandates that any driver who ignores an official barricade in a flooded area will be held accountable for the expenses of any emergency response vehicles required to save the driver, passengers, and the vehicle.
5. Pumping Your Own Gas Is Illegal in New Jersey
In New Jersey, it is illegal to pump your own gas. Gas station attendants must control the pump to mitigate the fire hazard posed by refilling a gas tank. They ensure that the engine to the vehicle is turned off, and there are no lit cigarettes near the vehicle while it is being fueled. This law is unique to New Jersey, as in many other states, drivers are required to step outside their car and pump their own gas.
6. Car Insurance May Not Be Required in Some Alaska Counties
In some remote counties of Alaska, vehicle registration is not required by the state. Therefore, vehicles that do not have to be registered are also not required to have car insurance. This is because the likelihood of getting into a car accident in these areas with very few drivers is relatively low. It is recommended that drivers check if they are exempt from carrying car insurance in these counties.
7. You Can’t Swear From a Vehicle in Maryland
Drivers in Rockville should be careful with their language while behind the wheel. Using obscene language can result in a misdemeanor charge and a fine of $100. It’s important to keep in mind that this law applies to all drivers, regardless of their age or gender.
8. Billboards Are Prohibited in Honolulu
Honolulu has a strict law against erecting billboards in the city. This is to preserve the natural beauty of the island and prevent commercial advertising from distracting tourists and locals. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Billboards are allowed for official court use, political campaigns, open house invitations, and other similar purposes. Despite these exceptions, the city remains committed to maintaining its natural aesthetic.
9. Idaho Bicyclists Can Proceed Through Red Lights After Stopping
In Idaho, bicyclists are allowed to ride through red lights if they have come to a complete stop and there are no other vehicles nearby. This law is similar to the “Idaho stop” law, which allows bicyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs. This means that bicyclists can proceed through stop signs after yielding to any other vehicles on the road. However, it is important for bicyclists to exercise caution and follow traffic laws to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.
10. You Must Properly Secure Animals During Transport in Massachusetts
Transporting animals on public roads in Massachusetts requires that the animal be properly secured to prevent injury to the animal and other motorists. Massachusetts law requires that all animals be enclosed or have racks extending at least 46 inches high to prevent them from falling or jumping off the vehicle. If the animal cannot be enclosed or secured with a rack, it must be tethered or enclosed in a cage.
This law applies to all animals, including wild animals and pets, being transported in the back of a motor vehicle. Violating this law can result in a minimum fine of $50. Therefore, it is important to ensure that animals are properly secured before transporting them on public roads in Massachusetts to avoid any legal consequences.
11. Adults Are Exempt from Wearing Seat Belts in New Hampshire
According to New Hampshire law, individuals who are 18 years or older are not required to wear seat belts while driving or riding in a vehicle. However, those who are below the legal age of adulthood must wear seat belts or face a moving violation citation. Despite this exemption, studies have proven that wearing seat belts can save lives, and it is always recommended to buckle up while driving.
12. Horse Riders Have the Same Rights as Regular Drivers in Pennsylvania
According to Pennsylvania law, individuals using animal-operated vehicles or riding animals, such as horse-drawn carriages, are granted the same rights and responsibilities as regular drivers. This means that they must follow traffic laws and can be ticketed for reckless driving. However, it is important to note that riding animals or driving animal-operated vehicles on limited-access highways is prohibited.
13. A Horse’s Speed Cannot Be Tested on Highways in Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, it is illegal to race horses or test their speed on highways. This unusual law was enacted due to problems in the state and violators can be fined up to $20 or face up to ten days in jail. It is important to note that this law only applies to highways and not private property. Therefore, horse owners and enthusiasts should find alternative locations to test their horse’s speed.
14. Some Minors Can’t Travel in the Open Bed of a Truck in South Carolina
In South Carolina, minors under the age of 15 are not allowed to travel alone in the open bed of a truck. However, they can still ride in the flatbed if accompanied by an adult. Exceptions are made for emergencies, hayrides, parades, and if proper restraints have been installed. It is important to note that violating this law can result in a fine and penalty points on the driver’s license.
15. Hunting From a Vehicle Is Prohibited in Tennessee
According to Tennessee legislation, it is illegal to hunt any wild animal from a vehicle. Although some sources may suggest that whales are an exception to this rule, it is highly unlikely to encounter a whale in Tennessee since it is not a coastal state. Therefore, no animal hunting from a vehicle is permitted in Tennessee. Violation of this law may result in penalties and fines.
16. Windshields Are Not Included in Vehicle Inspections in Texas
Surprisingly, Texas vehicle inspections do not require windshields to pass. However, a damaged windshield that impairs visibility can result in a failed inspection. It is unclear if a vehicle without a windshield can pass inspection.
17. You Can Drive Barefoot in a Car but Not a Motorcycle in Georgia
In Georgia, the law mandates that motorcycle riders must wear some form of footwear beyond just socks. However, there is no specific law in Georgia that prohibits driving a car barefoot. Despite the lack of a law against barefoot driving, it is advised to wear appropriate footwear for safety reasons, even though it may seem freeing to drive without shoes.
