Every day, Americans deal with a variety of laws and regulations; some cause confusion about what is actually illegal.
Some of these misunderstandings stem from mundane activities like turning on the car light while driving to more odd practices such as dumpster diving.
Clarifying these misconceptions not only informs but also demystifies the boundaries of legality. Let’s take a look at surprisingly legal activities that will uncover the realities of American law.
Turning on the Interior Light While Driving
Many Americans believe it’s illegal to turn on the interior light of a car while driving. However, there is no law that prohibits this; it is merely discouraged because it can potentially reduce the driver’s visibility at night. So, you can legally flip that switch but always consider safety first.
Collecting Rainwater
In most states, collecting rainwater on your own property is perfectly legal, contrary to popular belief. Some areas regulate the amount and method of collection, primarily for environmental management reasons. It’s always best to check local regulations, but in general, setting up a rain barrel is not against the law.
Eating Before Paying in a Grocery Store
Eating a piece of fruit or a snack from a supermarket shelf before paying is often frowned upon but isn’t illegal. As long as you pay for the consumed item when you check out, there’s no law broken. This act can be seen as unconventional and is not generally advised.
Counting Cards
Contrary to what many think, counting cards in a casino is not illegal; however, it’s definitely not welcomed by casinos. It’s a strategy used to track the probability of certain cards coming out of the deck. Casinos reserve the right to ask card counters to leave or ban them from playing blackjack.
Driving Barefoot
Driving without shoes is not prohibited by law in any of the 50 states. The myth persists, possibly because driving barefoot can decrease the driver’s control over the car, which could lead to accidents. While it’s legal, it might not always be the safest choice.
Crossing State Lines with Alcohol
It’s a common misconception that transporting alcohol across state lines is illegal. While some states may have restrictions on the amount of alcohol that can be brought in without permits for distribution, personal use generally does not fall under these laws. Always check state-specific laws to ensure compliance.
Writing on Money
Writing on U.S. currency isn’t illegal, but it is discouraged as it can lead to the deterioration of the bills. Defacing money to the point where it’s unusable, however, can be considered illegal. So, while scribbling a birthday message on a dollar might be in poor taste, it isn’t a crime.
Jaywalking
While commonly thought of as illegal everywhere, jaywalking laws vary widely by jurisdiction. Some cities are very strict, while others might not enforce jaywalking laws stringently. Generally, it’s wise to cross streets at designated crossings for safety.
Using Fake Names Online
Creating a profile under a pseudonym on the internet is not illegal unless done for fraudulent purposes. Many people use pseudonyms for privacy or entertainment without any legal repercussions. The legality changes if deception is intended for financial gain or harm.
Recording Police
In public spaces, recording police activities as long as you do not interfere with their duties is generally protected under the First Amendment. This right helps ensure public officials are accountable for their actions. Always maintain a safe and respectful distance to avoid obstructing law enforcement operations.
Dumpster Diving
Retrieving items from someone else’s trash, commonly known as dumpster diving, is legal in the United States under federal law. However, some localities might have ordinances against this activity, especially if it involves trespassing on private property. It’s essential to respect local laws and private property.
Cannibalism
Interestingly, there is no specific federal law against cannibalism in the United States. It’s the actions typically associated with cannibalism—like murder or desecration of a corpse—that are illegal. Pure cannibalism arises under such rare and extreme circumstances that it hasn’t been directly addressed in statutes.
Not Wearing a Seatbelt as a Passenger
In some states, it is not illegal for passengers over a certain age to ride in the back seat of a car without wearing a seatbelt. The laws vary by state, and most have mandates for front-seat passengers and minors. It’s always safest to wear a seatbelt, regardless of legal requirements.
Owning a Tank
Owning a tank in the United States is legal if the proper permits are met and the weaponry is deactivated. Enthusiasts can legally purchase military tanks from surplus sites or auctions. The tank must be registered and comply with federal regulations.
Taking Photos of the Eiffel Tower at Night
It’s a popular myth that taking photos of the Eiffel Tower at night is illegal. The structure itself can be photographed at any time, but the use of its image for commercial purposes without permission can infringe copyright because of the lighting display. Personal photos are completely legal.
Barefoot in Public
Walking barefoot in public places, contrary to what some might think, is not illegal in the United States. There are no federal health codes against being barefoot in stores or restaurants, though private businesses can enforce their own dress code policies. So feel free to ditch the shoes, but be aware of individual business policies.
Flashing Headlights to Warn of Police
Flashing headlights to alert oncoming drivers about a speed trap is not illegal, though some states have tried to challenge this practice. This act is considered a form of speech protected under the First Amendment. Nonetheless, drivers who flash their headlights should still use caution as reactions from other drivers can vary.
Selling Expired Food
Selling food that is past its “sell by” or “use by” date is not illegal in the United States, although it is regulated. Many products remain safe and consumable long after these dates. Stores often sell these items at reduced prices, but it’s always good to use discretion when consuming past-date goods.
Swearing in Public
Swearing in public is generally not illegal and is protected under free speech rights. Some local ordinances might regulate excessively disruptive or offensive language in public spaces to maintain public order. However, casual swearing is not a crime.
Sleeping in Your Car
Sleeping in your car is generally legal, depending on where the car is parked. Local laws might prohibit overnight parking at rest stops or city streets to prevent vagrancy. Always check the local regulations to avoid any legal trouble.
Refusing to Serve a Customer
Businesses can legally refuse service to a customer, provided the refusal is not based on race, color, religion, or national origin, which is protected under the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Other reasons for refusal, such as disruptive behavior or safety concerns, are typically lawful. Businesses must ensure their policies are non-discriminatory and clearly stated.
