World’s weirdest driving laws could lead to UK drivers getting fined

Each country has its own customs and traditions that help to give it an identity, but many tourists forget that these can also be found on the roads.

The car rental company Drive South Africa has published a list of the most obscure driving laws from around the world that holidaymakers may want to be aware of before they get behind the wheel there.

In America each state creates their own laws for road users, allowing some interesting laws for different parts of the country.

If you are travelling to Oregon, for example, it is illegal to open your vehicle’s door in an environment that is either unsafe or will prevent the flow of traffic.

If the police find you’ve held up pedestrians, cyclists or other cars and vans, they can issue a Class D traffic violation which can result in a $250 (roughly £195) fine.

Elsewhere in America, a historic law that’s still in place bans female motorists in California from driving whilst wearing a bathrobe although, thankfully, locals say this rule isn’t strongly enforced anymore.

Things are a little stricter in Spain, however, where you can land a €200 (around £170) fine for driving whilst wearing flip flops or heels, or if you get behind the wheel without wearing a shirt.

The Spanish are also sensitive about playing music from a car whilst in a ‘quiet zone’ such as outside a hospital, meaning it is always best to keep your holiday playlist to yourself.

Further afield, if you meet some friends on holiday in South Africa, be careful where you travel and how you get there.

That’s because South African law states that, on weekends, it’s against the law to travel in a convoy of six or more vehicles.

Finally, when it’s time to leave friends and family in Australia, it’s best to say your goodbyes before getting into the vehicle, as sticking your hand out of the window to wave could lead to the police issuing you a $337 (around £175) fine.

No matter where you travel or what driving laws they have, a report conducted by the RAC revealed that 76 percent of British motorists feel nervous when driving abroad.

The breakdown service highlighted the importance of researching driving laws before you travel, such as local speed limits and what you should carry in your vehicle.

They also warned motorists against driving when tired or drunk, and to always expect the unexpected, as driving styles may be different.