Heavy metal poisoning in roadside soils is a worldwide environmental issue with serious consequences for both ecological health and human well-being. This study provides a detailed summary of the state of heavy metal pollution along roads, spanning multiple locations and centuries. The research found a pattern of contamination in major and medium-sized cities around the world, with cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb) appearing as common pollutants. Temporal dynamics, specifically the impact of road age on heavy metal dosages, are investigated, offering light on the long-term consequences of vehicular traffic on soil pollution. The investigation delves into specific case studies, including the historic levels of lead in Kuala Lumpur and the shift from leaded to unleaded gasoline. Regional disparities in zinc and cadmium concentrations underscore the complex nature of heavy metal contamination, necessitating nuanced, area-specific mitigation strategies. Elevated copper levels in England, Korea, and Greece highlight the triad of concern in various geographical settings. Furthermore, the research compares heavy metal concentrations in Indian cities, emphasizing the influence of regulatory measures on contamination levels. The drastic reduction in lead levels in Kolkata post the discontinuation of leaded petrol signifies the effectiveness of environmental interventions. Conversely, the complex heavy metal predicament in Delhi underscores the intricate relationship between vehicular emissions, traffic congestion, and contamination. The study concludes with a global perspective on heavy metal contamination, emphasizing its meaningful ecological and anthropological health hazards. The regional and temporal variations discovered in this study give essential insights for informed decision-making, regulatory actions, and long-term urban planning to limit the negative consequences of heavy metal pollution in roadside soil.