Let’s get something straight from the start: this article isn’t about encouraging anyone to break the law. Not even close. Some of the things you’ll see on this list are incredibly serious, and breaking them can ruin lives. Others might seem minor, but they’re still against the law and can carry consequences you probably didn’t expect.
What’s eye-opening is how many laws people break every day—sometimes without even realizing it. Whether it’s forgetting to update your license or doing something as risky as texting behind the wheel, the truth is: nobody’s above the law. You can’t expect not to get in trouble if you break the law. Every action has a result. There’s a reason each of these laws exists because someone’s done it, and someone has been harmed, or worse, killed because of it.
So, here’s a breakdown of the most commonly broken laws in the United States.
We’ve all seen it—and chances are, most drivers have done it. But speeding is one of the top causes of accidents and fatalities. Even if there’s no one else around, it’s still not worth the risk. “Speeding was a factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities in 2022, killing 12151, or an average of over 33 people per day”. Let that sink in for a second. Care more about your life and the other people around you. No matter how smart you think you are, if you believe speeding is safe, you’re fooling yourself.
Illegal in most states and just as dangerous as drunk driving. One moment of distraction can change everything whether you lose your life, or you cause an accident and someone else loses their life. Imagine the burden you’ll face and the other family will face. In 2023, 3,275 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers.
First one that makes you go, “What? Littering is against the law?” Yep. It might seem harmless, but it adds up fast. Fines vary, and it’s terrible for the environment.
Oh but I like music and movies. This one’s huge. Downloading illegal files is still considered theft and can lead to serious fines or lawsuits.
In many urban areas, this is a no-go. It endangers pedestrians and can get you ticketed. That’s why roads have bike lanes. This is a state-by-state issue, and while tickets are rare, anything with a motor is usually illegal on the sidewalk.
Not illegal everywhere, but it falls under distracted driving laws in many states. Just to clarify, I’m not talking about drinking alcohol I’m talking about water, soda, or snacks. If food or drinks take your eyes off the road, it’s a problem. That’s distracted driving.
Come on, do I really have to explain this one? It’s not just inappropriate—it’s considered public lewdness or indecent exposure. It could land you with a criminal charge or on a sex offender registry. Don’t do it!
Parking near fire hydrants, curbs, or restricted zones? That’s illegal. It’s not just about a ticket if there’s a fire and emergency services can’t access a hydrant, someone’s life or property could be lost because of where you parked. Don’t be that person.
Drug possession even small amounts can bring life-altering consequences depending on your state and the substance. Don’t do drugs. Period. Just like young Michael Jordan would say “Stop it, Get Some Help”.
Still one of the simplest and most ignored safety laws. And yes, it’s illegal almost everywhere. I recently got pulled over for not wearing mine—just forgot, and boom: citation.
No one in their right mind should even consider drinking underage or even allow underage drinking. I don’t care if your trying to look cool, which your not. It can cause lasting brain and body damage. Yet it still happens all the time in our high schools and colleges. I don’t look up to anyone who thinks it’s cool.
It’s illegal and creates blind spots for other drivers. Just park legally—it's not worth the risk.
Reflectors aren’t enough. Most states require working lights on the front and back of your bike. It’s about safety for you and everyone else.
Yes, it’s a law in most places. Fines apply, and your neighbors will definitely hate you for it.
Maybe you’ve done this, but have you ever taken a deep breath and walked past someone smoking? It’s disgusting. That’s why it’s banned in many public places, including restaurants, parks, buses, and even sidewalks in some cities.
Obvious, right? Still happens all the time. Whether you’re caught by a cop or a traffic cam, it’s illegal and extremely dangerous.
Not coming to a complete stop at a stop sign is illegal. A lot of people, especially new drivers, think it’s okay. It’s not. Pedestrians have been hit. Just stop. It’s not hard.
Most states give you 30–60 days to update your address. Miss that, and you could face fines—or worse, issues with voting, taxes, or registration.
Skipping school without approval can be considered truancy. In some states, parents can face legal consequences.
Gun laws vary, but if you carry a weapon without the right permits or in a restricted zone, you can be arrested—even if the weapon is legally owned.
You don’t have to be a criminal to break the law. Sometimes, people do it out of ignorance. But that’s why this list matters, because knowing what’s illegal helps you avoid trouble.
Some of these most commonly broken laws are no-brainers. Others are ones we break without even thinking. Either way, consequences are real.
Stay aware. Stay smart. Nobody’s perfect, but the more you know, the better you can protect yourself and the people around you.
