13 spooky driving superstitions

Posted 6 September, 2019 Lauren Ferrone

Friday the 13th has long been dubbed one of the spookiest days of the year. So much so, there’s even a word to describe the fear of it – paraskevidekatriaphobia. It’s a bit of a mouthful, but with the next one looming, what better time to put together a list of superstitions motorists have about driving?  

1. Throw coins in your new car

Find a penny, pick it up, and all the day you’ll have good luck. Or you could just put them in your car. Throwing coins onto the floor of a new car is a ritual originating in New York and New Jersey to bring new-car owners prosperity.  

2. Hold your breath while driving past a cemetery

Feeling breathless? That’s to be expected, especially if you’re driving past a cemetery. It’s long been believed that holding your breath as you pass can stop evil spirits entering your body. You might encounter some issues if you get stuck at a red light or pass a cemetery that spans a few blocks though.  

3. Scratch your new car

Yes, you read that right. The last thing most of us want is for our brand spanking new ride to be scratched. There are, however, some people who believe deliberately marking their new car will prevent car crashes. Our advice? This is a scratch we recommend you don’t itch.  

4. Black cats bring bad luck

Historically, black cats have been associated with witchcraft and evil. That alone is enough to explain why many of us are dog people. The superstition that black cats crossing the street in front of you can cause bad luck originated in Japan. Some drivers even make an ‘x’ on the left side of the windscreen with their right hand if a black cat crosses their car’s path, but we recommend you keep your hands on the steering wheel instead.  

5. Lift your feet over train tracks

Did you know some motorists can levitate? Kind of. Lifting your feet as you drive over train tracks could save you from an untimely death, or so it’s said. Disclaimer: we strongly advise drivers keep their feet firmly planted on the floor or on necessary pedals at all times.  

6. Check your volume

When the radio plays your favourite song and you crank up the volume, do you make sure you avoid odd or even numbers? Depending on where you’re from, certain numbers are said to bring either good or bad luck.  

7. Hang a lucky charm

Forget air fresheners shaped as Christmas trees. Chances are you’ve seen the odd rosary or fluffy dice hanging from a rear view mirror. Both are believed to keep drivers and their passengers safe. Take note though: you won’t be considered lucky if these seemingly harmless objects obstruct your vision. The Australian Road Rules state drivers must have a clear view of the road ahead at all times.