Recent claims on social media suggested that the State Traffic Police fines drivers for sticking an arm out the window. This raised the question — is driving with one hand, or having an arm outside the vehicle, actually an offense?
According to lawyer Turan Abdullazade, the answer is nuanced. Speaking to KONKRET.az, he explained that under Article 342.1.4 of the Code of Administrative Offenses, a 40-manat fine applies only if the driver removes both hands from the steering wheel while the vehicle is in motion.
“Simply taking one hand off the wheel is not a direct basis for a fine,” Abdullazade said. “However, if the driver is also talking on the phone, making dangerous maneuvers, or creating a hazardous situation, it becomes a punishable violation.”
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The lawyer added that the police warnings are not unfounded:
“Driving with both hands reduces accident risks, improves maneuverability, and is generally safer. It’s a moral responsibility for every driver.”
Bottom line: Driving with one hand or resting it outside the window is not automatically a finable offense in Azerbaijan. But if it leads to dangerous driving or contributes to an accident risk, penalties can apply.
