Gorillas Are Not Allowed in the Backseat in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has its fair share of unusual laws, but one of the strangest involves gorillas and car etiquette. According to state law, it is illegal to transport a gorilla in the backseat of your car. While it’s unclear how often this law is enforced, it raises an interesting question—why does it even exist?
The Origins of the Law
Like many strange laws, the exact origins of this one are murky. Some believe it was put in place to regulate how exotic animals are transported, ensuring safety for both the animal and the public. Others think it might have been created after a specific incident involving a gorilla on the loose in Massachusetts—though no official records confirm this.
While the law specifies the backseat, it does not mention whether a gorilla can legally ride in the front seat or the trunk. Of course, transporting wild animals in a personal vehicle isn’t advisable, no matter where they sit.
Why It (Kind of) Makes Sense
Even though this law sounds ridiculous, it may have been designed to prevent unsafe situations involving large, unpredictable animals. Gorillas are incredibly strong and could cause chaos if startled or uncomfortable in a moving vehicle. Many states have strict laws regarding the transport of exotic animals, though most focus on ownership restrictions rather than specific seating arrangements.
Is It Still Relevant?
Nowadays, the law is more of an amusing relic than a practical regulation. There aren’t many gorillas being transported in personal vehicles, as most are housed in zoos or wildlife sanctuaries. However, Massachusetts still has strict exotic animal laws, meaning it’s unlikely anyone would get the chance to break this rule.
Final Thoughts
While it’s fun to imagine a gorilla sitting in the back of a car like a confused passenger, this law likely serves as a reminder of past concerns over animal transportation. If you do find yourself needing to move a gorilla around Massachusetts, maybe consider a professional animal transport service—just to be safe!
