Is It Allowed to Drive with the Trunk Open?
2 Answers
No, it is not allowed to drive with the trunk open, as doing so constitutes a traffic violation. Prohibited behaviors while driving a motor vehicle include: Driving when the doors or compartments are not properly closed; hanging or placing items within the front or rear window range of the driver's compartment that obstruct the driver's view; making or receiving handheld phone calls, watching TV, or engaging in other activities that interfere with safe driving; stalling or coasting in neutral gear on steep slopes; throwing items onto the road; driving a motorcycle with hands off the handlebars or hanging items on the handlebars; driving continuously for more than 4 hours without stopping to rest or resting for less than 20 minutes; honking the horn in areas or sections where it is prohibited. Penalties for driving with the trunk open: Driving with the trunk open is a violation, but electronic police cameras will not capture it. Such violations are managed by traffic police. Once discovered and the vehicle is stopped by traffic police, a ticket will be issued, which may result in a warning or a fine as per regulations.
I've been driving for over twenty years, and driving with the trunk open is something you should never do. The risks are too high. First, it can easily block your rearview mirror's visibility—if you can't see clearly when turning or changing lanes, an accident can happen in an instant. Second, items in the trunk might get blown out by the wind, hitting other cars or pedestrians, harming both others and yourself. Third, when driving at speed, the increased wind resistance can cause your fuel consumption to spike, wasting money over time. Fourth, the law clearly states that all parts of the vehicle must be properly closed while driving—leaving the trunk open is a violation, and police can fine you hundreds of dollars if caught. I remember once seeing a car on the highway with its trunk open, and a box flew out, nearly causing an accident. Make it a habit: walk around your car before every trip to check if the trunk is securely closed. Many cars now have an alarm feature that beeps if it’s not properly shut—don’t be lazy about it.