OTR drivers, put down your sleep masks and handkerchiefs – it’s illegal to drive in Alabama while blindfolded. Those of you who trek through North Carolina? Stop playing soccer in the middle of the road – it’s against the law here to play in traffic. These laws might sound unbelievable, but they’re actually on the books in those states.
For your entertainment, we’ve compiled of some of this country’s most unique driving laws by state. And don’t forget, it’s against the law in Montana to have sheep in your truck – unless, of course, you have a chaperone.
Alabama
If you’re considering driving down a one-way road, make sure a lantern is affixed to your automobile. And forget about operating your truck barefoot!
Alaska
Even if you don’t see many residents while driving through this sparsely-populated state, it’s illegal to tie a dog to the roof of your vehicle. If you’ve seen the movie “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” you know it’s not a good idea, anyway.
Arizona
Have you thought about driving in reverse across Arizona? Too bad. It’s illegal.
Arkansas
Picking up turkey on sourdough in Little Rock isn’t against the rules, but honking after 9 at night near any establishment that sells sandwiches and cold beverages is.
California
Jumping out of a car as it’s speeding down the road at 65 m.p.h. isn’t a good idea at any time, but it results in jail time in Glendale, California. If you’re a woman who wants to take a drive in your housecoat? Not allowed.
Colorado
Operating a black automobile in Denver on Sundays is prohibited. Sec. 11-50 in Alamosa, Colorado’s Code of Ordinances states that it’s “unlawful for any person to knowingly project any missile at or against any vehicle or equipment designed for the transportation of persons or property.” Better go put away those missiles!
Connecticut
Hopefully, you’ve never considered shooting a whale from your car, but you’ll be breaking the law if you do it in this state. For the residents New Britain, don’t expect a fire truck to come racing to your house after a call – the speed limit for these emergency vehicles in this city is 25. Yes, even when on the way to fight a fire.
Delaware
No changing your clothes in the car in this Eastern state.
Florida
Let’s say you have a pet elephant. Let’s then say you decide to take it for a walk but tie it to a parking meter while you do a little shopping. In the Sunshine State, you still have to feed the meter. No joke.
Georgia
Spitting from your truck is legal here, but don’t even think about doing it from a car or bus. Illegal.
Hawaii
Driving with your hazard lights on doesn’t seem too dangerous, but you can get a ticket for it in this tropical state.
Idaho
If you’re over 88 years of age in the city of Idaho Falls in this spud state, no driving a motorcycle.
Illinois
The Land of Lincoln prohibits driving a vehicle without a steering wheel. Is there a reason you’d want to do this?
Indiana
Want to sell a car on a Sunday in this state? You’re out of luck.
Iowa
If your route takes you through Mount Vernon, Iowa, avoid throwing a Red Ryder onto the highway if you want to stay on the right side of the law.
Kansas
Wheel spinning and tire squealing is banned in the city of Derby.
Kentucky
In the town of Fort Thomas, it’s illegal to allow your dog to “molest” a car.
Louisiana
According to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, no more than three individuals can ride in the front seat. There goes the party!
Maine
In South Berwick, Maine, it’s against the law to park within 25 feet of the Dunkin’ Donuts. Donut do it!
Maryland
No swearing in your vehicle if you’re driving through Rockville. Darn?
Massachusetts
It’s illegal to drive in this state with a gorilla in the backseat. Apparently, there’s no law against taking your rhinoceros with you.
Michigan
You can catch up on your news by reading the Lansing State Journal or another publication, but don’t do it sitting in the middle of the street unless you want to break the law.
Minnesota
It’s against the law to cross Minnesota state lines with a duck on your heard. This one quacks me up!
Mississippi
Honking your horn in Oxford, Mississippi might scare the horses; therefore, it’s illegal.
Missouri
In the St. Louis suburb of University City, you’re not allowed to honk someone else’s horn.
Unique Driving Laws by State – Part Two
In next week’s blog, we’ll tackle some of the zany laws from the other 25 states. In the meantime, subscribe to our blog to read about issues affecting the trucking industry.