Imagine that you're on a sandy beach in Italy, sipping on some really good wine, and living your best vacation life. Fast forward a whole year later, and bam! You get a driving ticket in the mail related to that trip abroad. The internet is straight-up divided on whether you actually have to fork over that cash or not.

A recent tweet blew up faster than you can say "speeding ticket" when a New York driver found themselves questioning the validity of a driving fine they received a full year after their Italian getaway. Users chimmed in with their two cents – some yelling, “Don’t pay that shady fine!”, while others preached, “Just pay up, mate.”

According to Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, dodging those driving fines like a game of Mario Kart ain't the way to go. They warn that ignoring the ticket could lead to an increased fine or even some nasty surprises the next time you're cruising through the same country.

let's talk about the nitty-gritty of driving fines abroad. From Australia insisting on squeaky-clean cars to Europe demanding emission stickers for entry, there are many of rules that can catch unsuspecting drivers off guard. So, before you decide to play fast and loose with the driving laws, it might be wise to do your homework and follow the rules of the road.

And let's not forget the golden rule of driving across borders – don't forget that International Driving Permit.  While the US license may work across the northern and southern borders, the rest of the globe might need extra paperwork to keep you in the clear. Nobody wants their vacation ruined by hefty fines or worse, having their vehicle impounded for lack of a permit.

When it comes to  international driving fines, it's better to be safe than. So, whether you're facing a ticket from last year's vacation or thinking about a road trip abroad, remember to stay informed and always keep that wallet ready to pay the piper.

5 Classic Horror Movie Locations Within Driving Distance of Upstate New York

Gallery Credit: Traci Taylor

The 10 Most Distracting Books To Listen To While Driving In New York

Audiobooks that are over 150 to 160 WPM are "considered distracting as it requires more concentration due to the high volume of words being spoken per minute."