Weird driving laws In Connecticut And Massachusetts you didn’t know

There are a lot of weird laws on the books. But just because a law is technically “law,” doesn’t mean there’s an actual liklihood that you’ll get charged and prosecuted for it.

Weird laws are brought for different reasons. For example, the 1917 Connecticut anti-discrimination law was only brought sparingly since it’s birth in the 1900’s, probably because certain firebrand prosecutors reserved it for times when they wanted to take some sort of political or societal stand.

Other laws like sunday blue laws also rarely get charged.

So… some of the following laws are weird and there might not be a credible threat of ever getting charged with them (practically speaking.) … But they are on the books nonetheless.

Connecticut

• Right-of-Way for Cattle: If you’re guiding cattle across a roadway, vehicles must yield to you.
• You may not Carry Items While Bicycling Or Scootering: Carrying items that prevent you from fully holding on to your handlebars is against the law.
• You must set your emergency brake any time you leave your vehicle: Connecticut law states: “Leaving any motor vehicle stationary on the highway without setting the brake in such manner as to prevent such vehicle from moving, unless it is occupied by a person able to control the same, shall be an infraction.”
• Walking Backwards After Sunset: In Devon, it’s illegal to walk backwards after sunset. This peculiar ordinance may have been enacted to prevent accidents during low-visibility hours.

Massachusetts

• Sleigh Bell Requirement: Operating a horse-drawn sleigh or sled on public roads requires at least three bells attached to the horse’s harness.
• No Peeping in Milford: It’s against the law to peek into car windows.
• You must give an officer your name if you’re driving at night: wherever you are, if you’re driving at night you must give an officer your name if he asks for it.
• You must not direct a bear onto a roadway: If you’re caught directing bears onto a roadway, it can be a $5 – $20 fine.
• Gorilla Passengers: It’s illegal to drive with a gorilla in the backseat.
• Taxi Driver Restrictions: Taxi drivers are prohibited from making love in the front seat of their taxi during their shifts. This law was likely enacted to maintain professionalism and decorum among taxi operators.
• Snoring Regulations: If you’re sleeping in your car, snoring is prohibited unless all windows are closed and securely locked.