In eastern Russia, it's illegal to pass a stranded vehicle.

It gets so cold in far-east Russia's winter, -50 to -96F, that getting a flat tire or having engine trouble could be a death sentence. The government actually enacted a law stating that it is illegal to pass a stranded vehicle on the side of the road without asking if the occupants are ok.

I think it's a great idea. In general, I have found people living in extreme environments are very friendly and helpful to each other. When your life can be dependent on your neighbor just because of the weather, it pays to be nice. :)