As we navigate our daily lives, it’s easy to view ourselves as law-abiding citizens. We pay our taxes, adhere to social norms, and generally respect the laws that govern our society. However, there exists a fascinating paradox in the realm of day-to-day law adherence, especially when it comes to driving and domestic life. While we pride ourselves on being conscientious and responsible, both on the road and at home, there are numerous laws, often overlooked or unknown, that many of us break regularly. This exploration is not just an exercise in legal awareness but a compelling reflection on the complexity of law, human behavior, and societal norms. In the domain of driving, where we spend a significant portion of our lives, most of us consider ourselves good drivers.
We follow the major rules: we don’t speed excessively, we stop at red lights, and we avoid drinking and driving. However, there’s a myriad of lesser-known or frequently ignored traffic laws that many of us inadvertently or carelessly break. These violations might seem trivial, but they can lead to traffic tickets, penalty points on our licenses, and in some cases, more severe legal consequences. More importantly, these overlooked regulations are often designed not just for the orderly flow of traffic but for the safety of all road users. Similarly, within the confines of our homes, there are laws and regulations that we might be breaching without even realizing it. From the way we use our internet connections to the disposal of household waste, our domestic life is governed by a complex web of legislation that, when not followed, can have legal repercussions.
This revelation begs the question: Why do we, as generally law-abiding citizens, find ourselves breaking these laws? Are these laws too obscure, are we uninformed, or do we simply choose convenience and habit over strict legal compliance? To answer these questions, it’s essential to delve into the specific laws that are commonly broken in our daily routines.
CONNECTING TO UNSECURED WI-FI
This one is likely very, very common. Society is so dependent on the internet that most people will do whatever is necessary to connect to the internet. The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act is broad enough to cover many different ways someone violates these regulations. Connecting to unsecured WiFi networks or visiting pages that violate your company’s terms of service could potentially lead to a felony charge! So, next time you are thinking about liking a status or sharing a post, think twice about when, where, and most importantly, how you do it.
Downloading movies, TV shows, or software from unauthorized sources is a common practice that violates copyright laws. Many people engage in illegal downloading without realizing the legal implications. Copyright infringement can lead to legal action by copyright holders, resulting in hefty fines or even criminal charges. It’s essential to respect intellectual property rights and use legal channels to access digital content.
GAMBLING AT HOME
Most states prohibit people from holding poker games at home. Home poker games are legal through specific exceptions in unlawful gambling laws in Texas. Although gambling is illegal in Texas, Texas Hold’em never bothered anyone. Side note: Texas Hold’em originated in Robstown, Texas, at the Hotel Brendel!
PIRATING MUSIC
While Limewire and Napster have been gone for many years, there are still many ways people are finding a way to get their favorite music. This particular law-breaking borderlines theft, and is considered unethical to some and acceptable to others.
LITTERING
Here is one I will not be breaking, but unfortunately, I cannot speak for everyone. Something as small as tossing a cigarette butt out the car window or spitting gum on the sidewalk is still littering and considered a big no-no in most of the United States of America. Littering is illegal and is punishable by serious fines, especially in Texas. Remember, don’t mess with Texas!
BREAKING CURFEW IN YOUR AREA
Breaking a driving curfew may not be something most people know they can do since, many times, people are not even aware of a curfew in their area. Unfortunately, that does not mean it is not violating a law. It is important when living in any area to familiarize yourself with the local laws in your area to avoid any fines or marks on your driver’s license.
NOT USING YOUR TURN SIGNAL
Some drivers think making a lane change or taking a turn without using a blinker is completely fine, especially if there’s no traffic or you are in your neighborhood. However, it is the law to use your turn signal, so be sure to use that blinker BEFORE turning or changing lanes.
TEXTING WHILE DRIVING
Even though we have all seen the numerous marketing campaigns that explain why texting and driving is dangerous, some people do not know it is illegal to text and drive. Put your phone away. The text message can wait. Get to your destination safely first.
DRIVING WITHOUT A SEATBELT
Click it or ticket may sound like a catchy campaign, but it is the law. Driving or sitting in a car without a seatbelt is against the law, so remember, click it or ticket!
BREAKING THE SPEED LIMIT
Sometimes, you will be driving for what seems like forever without seeing any speed limit signs. That is why it is essential to know the standard speed limits for the area; 70 mph for rural freeways, 65 mph for four-lane divided highways, and 55 mph for other highways. But whether you know the speed limit or not, it is illegal to go over the speed limit. Drive safe!
