Driving often feels second nature, but some habits that seem harmless can actually put you at odds with the law. Actions like checking your phone, lingering in the left lane, or even snacking behind the wheel may appear routine, yet they’re illegal in many states and can result in fines or citations. Beyond penalties, these habits increase accident risks and endanger others on the road. By learning which behaviors are off-limits, you’ll not only avoid costly mistakes but also become a safer and more confident driver.
1. Texting While Driving
Sending or reading a text while driving may feel like a quick task, but it is one of the most dangerous habits on the road. Almost every state has laws banning texting, and many now restrict all handheld phone use. Fines can be steep, and repeat violations may put points on your license. More importantly, looking down for just five seconds at highway speeds equals driving the length of a football field without watching the road. That kind of distraction has caused countless preventable accidents.
2. Driving Barefoot
Kicking off your shoes while driving might seem harmless, but it can cause legal and safety issues. While there isn’t a federal law banning barefoot driving, many states classify it as reckless if it leads to poor control. If your foot slips on the brake or accelerator and results in an accident, you may face citations or liability. Even flip-flops and loose sandals are risky since they slide off or get stuck under pedals. Choosing secure footwear helps you stay in control and out of trouble.
3. Hanging Objects from the Rearview Mirror
Hanging dice, charms, or even an air freshener from your rearview mirror may seem harmless, but in many states it’s against the law. Anything that blocks even part of the windshield is considered an obstruction, and police often use it as a legal reason to stop drivers. Small objects can reduce reaction time in heavy traffic or hide pedestrians from view. While it feels like simple personalization, the risks and potential fines make it smarter to keep the mirror clear and unobstructed.
4. Left Lane Hogging
Driving slowly in the left lane might not feel like breaking the law, but in many states it is. The left lane is legally meant for passing, not for cruising, and blocking it can frustrate faster traffic. When drivers are forced to weave around, it increases the risk of collisions. Several states fine drivers who linger in the left lane without passing. The safest and most courteous approach is to move back to the right lane once you’ve overtaken another vehicle, keeping traffic flowing smoothly.
5. Excessive Honking
Car horns are built as safety tools, yet many drivers misuse them out of frustration. Most states limit horn use to warning others of immediate danger, such as preventing a collision or alerting someone to your presence. Leaning on the horn in traffic, however, can bring fines and in some areas even counts as disorderly conduct. Beyond the legal risks, unnecessary honking adds to noise pollution and tension on the road. Using the horn only when needed keeps driving safer and far less stressful.
6. Eating While Driving
Grabbing food on the go feels convenient, but it can easily cross into dangerous and sometimes illegal territory. Many states classify eating or drinking at the wheel as a form of distracted driving, meaning you could face fines if it leads to swerving, slow reaction times, or loss of control. Hot coffee, greasy snacks, or messy meals raise the risks even higher, since spills can cause sudden panic and take both hands off the wheel. Even where it’s not specifically outlawed, police can cite the behavior as careless or reckless. To stay safe and avoid penalties, it’s best to finish meals before you drive.