There are plenty of driving habits that people assume will get them pulled over, but some of the most commonly believed “illegal” actions are actually perfectly legal — at least in certain situations.

A video by Law By Mike clears up three of the biggest misconceptions, reminding us that not everything we’ve heard about the law is true, especially when it comes to driving. Some rules seem like common sense, but others are widely misunderstood.

Flashing Your Headlights to Warn Other Drivers

Ever seen a driver flash their headlights to warn oncoming traffic about a speed trap? Many believe this is against the law, but in most states, it’s actually protected under the First Amendment as free speech. Courts have ruled that flashing headlights is a form of communication, making blanket bans unconstitutional.

That said, some states have restrictions on how headlights can be used — such as prohibiting high beams within a certain distance of another car — so while the warning itself isn’t illegal, the way you do it could be.

Riding in the Back of a Pickup Truck

Whether you can legally ride in the bed of a pickup depends on where you are. Some states allow it without restrictions, while others have rules based on age, speed limits, or road type.

Texas, for example, generally bans passengers under 18 from riding in a truck bed unless it’s for a parade or an emergency. Meanwhile, California has stricter laws, often requiring seat belts or barring the practice entirely. If you’re unsure about your state’s rules, it’s worth checking before hopping in.

Swearing at a Police Officer

Yelling at a cop might not be the smartest move, but is it illegal? In most cases, no. The First Amendment protects free speech, including profanity directed at law enforcement. However, that protection has limits.

If your words incite violence, make threats, or disrupt public order, they could lead to charges like disorderly conduct. Even if it’s legal, swearing at an officer can escalate a situation fast, and that’s rarely in your best interest.

Know the Law, Stay Informed

Just because something seems illegal doesn’t mean it actually is. The laws around driving and public behavior aren’t always as black and white as people assume. Knowing your rights — and the local rules — can help you avoid unnecessary trouble while staying on the right side of the law.

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