10 Everyday Laws You Might Be Breaking Without Even Knowing It
Many people unknowingly break laws in their daily routines, from jaywalking to texting while driving. Though these infractions seem harmless, they can lead to fines or legal consequences. Here are 10 laws that people often break without realizing it.
1. Jaywalking
Jaywalking, or crossing outside designated crosswalks, is illegal in many places. Cities like New York enforce jaywalking laws strictly due to the safety risks for pedestrians and drivers. Even though many people casually do it, it's a fineable offense.
2. Speeding
You see a posted speed limit, but the cars around you are going much faster. Do you really need to adhere to the limit?
Speeding is one of the most common legal infractions. Though some drivers may follow the traffic flow, exceeding the speed limit is still illegal and can lead to fines or accidents. Drivers should monitor their speed, particularly in school zones or residential areas.
3. Texting While Driving
Despite widespread campaigns against texting while driving, many drivers still engage in this dangerous behavior. It's illegal in most states and remains a significant cause of distracted driving accidents. Penalties for texting while driving vary but can range from points on your license to fines.
4. Parking Violations
Are signs for parking a mere suggestion, or a hard and fast law? Parking violations include common offenses like overstaying at meters, double parking, or parking in prohibited zones. These infractions often result in parking tickets, but repeated violations can lead to more considerable fines or even getting your car towed.
5. Taking Hotel Items
Many people assume that hotel items like towels, bathrobes, or toiletries are fair game to take home. However, removing these items is considered theft, and hotels often charge guests for missing items after checkout. Stick to using hotel-provided toiletries only during your stay.
6. Underage Drinking
Often gloried in the movies, underage drinking remains a common infraction, especially in social settings like parties or clubs. While often overlooked, it is illegal and can lead to fines, community service, or criminal records. This could affect job applications, college admissions, and other future opportunities.
7. Using Public Wi-Fi Without Permission
Using open or unsecured public Wi-Fi without permission may seem harmless, but it's illegal in many jurisdictions. This act is regarded as unauthorized access, and in serious cases, it can be classified as hacking. Always seek permission before connecting to a Wi-Fi network.
8. Driving With a Covered License Plate
A license plate obscured by dirt, snow, or a license plate frame can result in fines. Law enforcement needs to be able to read your license plate clearly, so regularly check that it's visible, especially after bad weather.
9. Not Cleaning Up After Your Pet
In many cities and towns, you are not cleaning up after your pet is frowned upon and illegal. Laws are in place to keep public areas clean and violating them can result in fines. Be sure to carry waste bags when walking your dog to avoid penalties.
10. Underage Gambling
Underage gambling, whether online or in-person at a casino, is illegal. Although it's often seen as harmless fun, it can have legal repercussions, including fines and bans from casinos. Minors should refrain from participating in any form of gambling.
These laws might seem minor or easy to overlook, but can lead to unexpected consequences. Staying aware and making minor changes to your routine can help you avoid trouble and keep things running smoothly.
References: 21 Laws You Could Be Breaking Without Knowing It | Most Commonly Broken Laws in America
