A Tale of Road Anomalies: The Strangest Driving Incidents I've Witnessed

During my time in Saudi Arabia, I encountered driving behaviors that were both bizarre and concerning. These experiences aren't just stories for a late-night chat; they highlight the challenging nature of road safety in a region with unregulated driving practices. In this article, I will share intriguing and cautionary tales that will give you a glimpse into the quirky and sometimes dangerous driving habits I witnessed there.

The Absence of Road Etiquette: Saudi Arabia’s Road Regulations

When I was living and teaching in Saudi Arabia, I quickly realized that there were no strict road rules. This lack of regulation often led to high accident rates, and I witnessed several incidents that were not only dangerous but also shocking to an outsider. One of the most concerning cases was a student of mine who went to jail for vehicular homicide because he was texting and driving. The student had shown up at my doorstep, imploring me to lend him 500 Saudi Riyals. He claimed this money was needed for a lawyer to handle his case. However, I never saw the student or that money again. This instance clearly illustrates the severity of the lack of road etiquette and the dangerous habits that result from it.

Unusual and Hazardous Driving Practices

Another peculiar incident involved the frequent sight of vehicles crossing the middle of a 100-yard-wide rotary near my motel. This was done based on the misconception that it would make them arrive faster. However, what they failed to realize was the presence of soft sand in the middle of the circle, which would eject vast jets of sand as cars passed through. This not only posed a significant hazard but also disturbed the vicinity. The lack of understanding and adherence to basic road safety principles is alarming.

Although I recall no female drivers in Saudi Arabia during my 2012 stay, the absence of women on the road brings up theories about the cultural and social dynamics that might have contributed to such unconventional driving behaviors. After all, all Saudi bachelors are reportedly preoccupied with finding alternative avenues for romantic and sexual encounters, which are forbidden within the societal norms. Additionally, a high percentage of Saudi men are married to their first cousins, making the wedding night a unique affair. While the sheer thrill of facing a mirror instead of a wife signifies the inconveniences of such marriages, it's a stark reminder of the intense social pressures these men face. All these factors contribute to the heightened sense of urgency and erratic behavior behind the wheel.

Unexpected Encounters on the Road

One of the most bizarre encounters with a vehicle I have ever had was late at night in the middle of a busy commercial four-lane road. A yellow cab was stopped in the far right lane with all four doors open. The interior was illuminated by the dome light, revealing three grown men completely nude, even the driver. This incident was far from an everyday occurrence, and I immediately called 911 to report the situation. However, the 911 operator was skeptical and ended the call. Ten minutes later, I picked my son up from his job, and the yellow cab had vanished. This incident highlights the bizarre and often dangerous nature of what can happen on the road in a region with unconventional driving practices.

These experiences underscore the importance of adhering to road regulations and exercising caution while driving. They serve as a reminder that safety on the roads is not just about following rules, but also about understanding and respecting the cultural and social dynamics that shape driving behaviors.

In conclusion, my time in Saudi Arabia taught me the importance of road safety and the impact of cultural and social norms on driving practices. These experiences should serve as a cautionary tale, encouraging both locals and travelers to prioritize safety and adhere to road regulations.