Every feature on a car is intentional, and if it's compromised in any way, it could spell trouble for its occupants, other motorists, or pedestrians and cyclists. However, there's one bizarre trend that's more prevalent in daily life, which, at first, might seem harmless: going bumperless. But why is driving without a bumper always a bad idea? It all comes down to protecting the vehicle's crucial mechanical systems, improving its crash safety, as well as ensuring the safety of other motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists on the road. Depending on the state you reside in, there are rules on the books that make rolling without a bumper (or a factory-spec bumper) illegal.