Driving in Moldova

Twelve Moldovan “Rules of the Road”

1. Lines painted onto the road aren’t REALLY meant to be lane dividers; they are best used when straddled.
2. Make 4 lanes out of two at every intersection to increase your chances of being the first to go on the green.
3. When stopped by a stoplight, it is still best to cross an intersection prior to your light turning green.
4. Watch for “pedestrian” stoplights randomly placed in the middle of roads.
5. Stop for pedestrians within inches of where they are walking.
6. 50 mph in residential areas is a good speed.
7. Passing slower traffic is allowed on every street.
8. It is best to pass when there is oncoming traffic or when cresting a hill.
9. Know at least one “law” that the police officer doesn’t follow to avoid a ticket. when pulled over (i.e. “Yes, I did run a red light, but you are supposed to show me your ID before discussing the problem with me. I can report you.”).
10. Prepare your stomach and head in advance for poor road conditions (as the joke goes, potholes decreased by half in the country of Moldova last year…because every set of two potholes grow so large they became one).
11. Insured motorists are common (thankfully); liability insurance is only $15 per year.
12. Seatbelts are required, except when there are none.