Almost every municipality in the United States has weird or outdated laws on the books. For example, in Alaska it's illegal to give beer to a moose. The crazy part is that someone had to try it before legislatures took notice. They're not coming up with laws out of the blue. It only takes one instance of crazy activity for legislatures to gather together to enact a law. Traffic laws are no exception. The books are filled with crazy laws passed after someone did something unbelievably weird. Following are just a few weird traffic laws in the United States.
No Sleeping
In a province in California, it's illegal to sleep in any public space, including the street and alley. Most would agree that it's common sense not to take a snooze on the street, especially with the high risk of getting flattened and all. Apparently, however, at least one person decided to nap on the pavement, prompting this very weird law.
Yes to Roadkill
In Illinois, you're allowed to take home your roadkill for dinner. Of course, you have to meet certain criteria first. You must have a hunting or trapping license as well as a habitat stamp. Also, the animal has to be in season. If you accidentally hit an animal that's not in season, you have to leave it lying in the street.
No Gorillas
Just when you thought it couldn't get any stranger, it does. In Massachusetts, it's illegal to drive your car with a gorilla in the backseat. A gorilla is estimated to be anywhere from 6 to 15 times stronger than a professional fighter, and they don't back down from a fight. Who would drive around with one in their car?
No Spitting
A lot of municipalities have laws regarding spitting on sidewalks and in public places, but the South takes spitting seriously. In parts of Georgia, it is illegal to spit from a moving vehicle as long as it is a car or a bus. If you're riding in a truck, however, you may spit as much as you like.
No Speeding
You're not supposed to speed anywhere, but New Britain, Connecticut, won't even allow fire trucks to speed if they're responding to a fire. They're only allowed to travel a whopping 25 miles per hour, period.
As you can see, there are lots of weird traffic laws on the books. Fortunately, you don't have to worry about most of them because they're not enforced. If you are pulled over for a traffic violation, be sure to contact a lawyer who specializes in traffic law.
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