From Bird Poop to Car Coining: 7 Common Driving Superstitions Explained

Do you hold your breath while driving past a graveyard? You're not alone. For many, a car is more than just a piece of machinery; it's a companion on the road of life. This emotional connection often gives rise to Common Driving Superstitions that drivers follow religiously, regardless of how irrational they might seem.

The Logic Behind Common Driving Superstitions

Many rituals involve physical actions to ward off bad luck. Holding one's breath through a tunnel or past a cemetery is a widespread practice, rooted in ancient beliefs about spirits or avoiding toxic air. Some drivers also lift their feet off the floor when crossing railroad tracks, fearing that keeping them down might lead to losing a loved one or failing to marry.

Car Coining and the Curse of Green Cars

Not all superstitions are about avoidance; some are meant to invite prosperity. Car coining, the act of placing loose change under the seat of a new vehicle, is believed to bring financial luck. Conversely, many professional racers avoid green cars. This stigma traces back to high-profile fatalities in the 1910s involving green racing machines. Surprisingly, finding bird poop on your car is often considered a sign of good fortune, particularly in Russia, due to the rarity of the event.