Law-Abiding Citizen: Evading The Criminal Label

It's easy to think of ourselves as law-abiding citizens, but the reality is that many of us break the law on a daily basis without even realizing it. From something as seemingly minor as exceeding the speed limit or texting while driving, to more obvious offenses like illegal drug use or carrying a weapon, the average person commits around seven crimes per week. While some may argue that these so-called minor crimes are socially acceptable, the fact remains that they are still illegal and can carry legal consequences. So, the next time you're tempted to break what you consider to be a small rule, remember that it's still important to uphold the law, no matter how insignificant the infraction may seem.

Speeding

Speed limits are set based on road design and traffic conditions to keep everyone safe. When drivers go over these limits, they put themselves and others at risk. This includes not only other drivers but also pedestrians, cyclists, and law enforcement officers.

The consequences of speeding are serious and far-ranging. Firstly, there is the increased potential for loss of vehicle control and the increased severity of crashes. This is compounded by the reduced effectiveness of safety features such as seatbelts and airbags at higher speeds. There is also the economic impact of speed-related crashes, with increased fuel consumption and vehicle repair costs.

In addition to the physical dangers, speeding can also result in legal consequences. Drivers who speed may receive frequent speeding tickets, leading to points on their license and increased insurance rates. Repeated speeding offenses can even result in a license being suspended or revoked.

To avoid the dangers and consequences of speeding, it is important to always adhere to the speed limit and drive according to the road conditions. This includes adjusting your speed for bad weather, road repairs, or poorly lit areas. By driving at a safe speed, you can help keep the roads safer for everyone.

Texting while driving

Distracted driving, which includes texting or talking on the phone, eating and drinking, adjusting the radio, or any other activity that diverts attention from driving, claimed the lives of over 3,300 people in 2022 in the United States alone. That number accounts for 8% of all crash deaths in the country for that year. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for about 5 seconds. If you're driving at 55 mph, that's like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.

To avoid becoming part of this grim statistic, it's crucial to understand the risks and commit to distraction-free driving. This means putting away your phone and focusing solely on the task of driving. If you need to text or make a call, pull over to a safe place first. As a responsible citizen, you should also encourage your friends and family to adopt the same safe practices and speak out if you're a passenger in a car and the driver is distracted.

While there is no nationwide ban on texting or using a wireless phone while driving in the US, many states have taken action. As of 2024, 49 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam have banned texting while driving for all drivers. Additionally, 34 states and the District of Columbia have prohibited all handheld phone use by drivers. These laws carry potential legal consequences, and it's essential to be aware of the specific regulations in your state.

Littering

Don't break any laws and you won't become a litterer.

To be considered illegal, most states require law enforcement officers or designated individuals to witness the act and write a citation. The punishment for littering typically involves a fine and/or community service, such as a specified number of hours picking up litter. For instance, in California, a first-time littering offense carries a minimum fine of $250 and eight hours of roadside litter cleanup. Subsequent offenses can result in higher fines of up to $3,000 and 24 hours of litter cleanup.

By following the law and properly disposing of waste, individuals can avoid legal consequences and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Illegally downloading music

When you illegally download music, you are depriving the artists and record companies of their rightful earnings. This can result in lower royalties for established musicians, making it difficult for them to earn money from their creations. As a result, some musicians have chosen to bypass record companies altogether and sell their music independently. Illegally downloading music also impacts the discovery and promotion of new talent. Record companies invest significant time and money into scouting and promoting emerging artists. When revenue is lost due to illegal downloads, these efforts are often the first to be cut, making it harder for new artists to break into the industry.

In addition to affecting artists and record companies, music piracy also harms the people who work behind the scenes in the music industry. Professional songwriters, music producers, sound engineers, and technicians may find themselves without work due to reduced budgets. The loss of revenue can also impact the "artists and repertoire" (A&R) teams, who are responsible for discovering and signing new talent.

While it may be tempting to illegally download music to access specific songs or avoid paying for an entire album, it is important to consider the consequences of your actions. Legal download sites and streaming services offer low-cost alternatives that allow you to enjoy music while supporting the artists and industry professionals who create it. By choosing legal options, you can help ensure that the music industry remains vibrant and diverse, fostering creativity and providing a platform for talented individuals to share their art with the world.

Riding a bicycle on the sidewalk

In Oregon, bicycles are considered vehicles, and bicyclists must follow the same rules as motor vehicles. Bicycles must ride as close as practicable and safe to the right side of the roadway, except when overtaking another bicyclist, preparing to make a left turn, or avoiding a fixed or slow-moving object or vehicle. On one-way roads, bicyclists may ride near the left-hand side of the roadway.

• Bicycles are required to ride in designated bike lanes or paths when adjacent to the roadway, except when turning or avoiding hazards.
• Bicyclists may pass motor vehicles on the right if it is reasonably safe to do so.
• When a vehicle is passing a bicyclist at a speed greater than 35 miles per hour, the vehicle must maintain a safe distance to prevent contact with the bicyclist.
• Bicyclists are required to come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights, use hand/arm signals when turning or stopping, and may not ride more than two abreast.
• Bicycles must have proper lighting and reflectors for nighttime riding and an adequate braking system.
• Adults are not required to wear helmets, but children under 16 years of age must legally wear a helmet while riding in public.
• Clinging to motor vehicles while biking is prohibited.
• Bicycles may only carry the number of persons for which they are designed, except an adult may carry a child in a backpack or sling.
• Sirens are not permitted on bicycles, except for use by police or fire departments.

Frequently asked questions