Traveling across the country can be a thrilling activity. However, it’s important to stay out of trouble with the law while out there. There are different state and local laws that you need to know before you embark on your journey, and four of them are listed below.
Driving Laws
If you are exploring the country by road and you’ve decided to drive across the country, you should remember that each state has its own set of traffic rules. There are different speed limits in most states, 65 miles per hour being the standard highway speed. Always be on the lookout for speed signs in different states, as some states strictly enforce traffic violations. It’s generally illegal to use mobile phones or electronic devices while driving, especially handheld ones. Most states allow the use of hands-free mobile devices, on the other hand. Conversely, there are states that don’t allow newly permitted drivers to operate any mobile device even if it is hands-free for a specified period of time after they get their license. As you cross different state lines, take note of their road use rules with the help of the internet.
Medication Laws
Medication is important, and sometimes it’s even lifesaving. If you’re traveling across the country with prescription medication, remember to carry a copy of your prescription with you. A good example of laws regarding medication is the state of medical marijuana in different states. For example, Alaska does not recognize other states’ Medical Marijuana cards but allows up to a one-ounce purchase of cannabis for recreational purposes. Read up on the laws regarding different drugs in the states you will traverse to avoid finding yourself in trouble because ignorance is never an acceptable defense. In Ohio, for instance, a charge of first-degree misdemeanors may translate to six months in jail as well as a $1,000 or more fine. Most laws to do with drug use and possession are termed misdemeanors. If you need more specific help, consider looking for information on each state’s advisory board online and make calls when you need to.
Weapon Laws
Gun laws are very sensitive and also extremely strict in some states. If you own a gun and intend to travel across the country with it, do comprehensive research on the gun laws of the states that you will be passing through. You must know if they accept permits from your home state, among other things. Find out the concealed carry and open carry laws of the states you’re visiting. This is especially important if you are going to go hunting at some point in your travels because there will be different regulations on hunting gear as well. Different versions of red flag laws are currently enacted in a total of 19 states and the District of Columbia, so find out the specifics of each state.
Insurance Laws
The fourth thing you need to put into consideration is insurance regulations. Besides making sure that your insurance cover is going to be accepted in different states, you need to find out more details. These include compensation claims for injuries suffered while in different establishments. Contrary to popular belief, it’s only 1% to 2% of workers’ compensation claims that end up being fraudulent. For this reason, make sure you know what laws govern you while you travel because accidents happen. If you know the course of action that you need to take if you experience an issue that needs to be covered by insurance, you will be less anxious during your travels.
Before setting out across the country, find out the important things that will help you stay safe and within what’s legal. Ask the relevant authorities if need be, so you get the best adventure possible with minimal run-ins with the law.
