Law & Ethics: Knowing USA Better

The United States of America, or simply the USA, is a country in North America. It is also a massively popular international holiday destination in the world. Consisting of 50 states and a federal district, one can find a diverse range of local cultures and traditions during their visit to this country. Tourists interested in travelling to the USA for their next international holiday are advised to research the do’s and don’ts while in the destination. It can keep their trip smooth sailing by helping them avoid unnecessary trouble.

Continue reading this page to learn about some crucial things about the USA, like its local laws, culture, ethics and customs, where to seek help, etc.

Local laws and rules in the USA

Here are some important local laws and rules in the USA that tourists should know about;

• Weapons law: You may be aware of the gun laws and rights in the USA. However, they do not apply to tourists. In general, tourists are advised to avoid carrying any sort of weapon during their visit to the USA.
• Driving laws: The USA has strict laws on operating a vehicle on the public road and specified etiquette on what to do during a traffic stop. Tourists planning to drive in the USA should know these rules and have a proper driving permit.
• Photography and videography: In some places in the USA, photography and videography are allowed in public spaces, whereas, in others, you may require consent or permission from all parties involved. In addition, taking pictures or videos of or in prohibited locations can land you in legal trouble.
• Additional local laws: While travelling in the USA, you may find unique local laws that are state-specific. For example, rolling boulders in Boulder, Colorado, filling fuel in your car by yourself in New Jersey, being drunk on a public train in Michigan, etc., are strictly prohibited.

Local culture in the USA

One of the most unique things about USA tourism is its diverse culture. Here are some aspects that you need to be aware of;

• Language: There’s no official language in the USA. Two of its most spoken languages are English and Spanish.
• Religion and beliefs: Besides Christianity, which is followed by most of the population, the other prominent religions in the USA include Judaism, Islam, Buddhism and Sikhism.
• Food: Food culture is pretty big in the USA, with numerous fast food and luxury restaurants at every corner. The cuisine in the country varies largely from region to region.
• Major celebrations: Americans take their festivals and events very seriously. Some of the major celebrations in the country are New Year, the Birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., July 4th, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.
• Art and pop culture: Art, literature, music, and sports are massive in the USA, with pretty big fan followings.

Local ethics in the USA

Here are some important things you should know about local ethics and etiquette in the USA;

• In some cases, Americans can be a bit rude or aggressive to outsiders. However, the majority of the people are well-spoken and very enthusiastic. It is advised that you talk to everyone politely and smile more frequently to carry on a positive impression.
• A plain and simple form of communication that doesn’t rely much on body language is valued largely in the USA.
• Americans don’t like others invading their personal space, so try to maintain a distance of 2 to 3 feet, especially if they are strangers.
• Greetings in the USA is pretty casual and informal for the most part.

Laws to abide by in the USA

Here are some major laws that every tourist visiting the USA must abide by;

• Alcohol and cigarettes: In the USA, the legal age for purchasing and drinking alcohol in most states is 21. The same goes for purchasing and the use of cigarettes.
• Public drinking: In most U.S. states, drinking in public is prohibited and can land you in jail. Also, driving under the influence is clearly illegal in the country.
• Littering: Irresponsible waste disposal and littering in the USA is illegal and will attract hefty fines.
• Gambling: If you are visiting the USA to gamble, note that it is considered illegal or has different restrictions in some states.
• Travelling in a vehicle: You may require a driving permit in each state to operate a vehicle in its jurisdiction. Also, in some regions, wearing a seatbelt is compulsory for both the driver and passengers.
• Dress code: There are no strict restraints on dress code across the USA, as long as you are dressed modestly. Nudity at beaches is generally prohibited in the country, except in some places like Halouver Beach, Little Beach, etc.

Why you should respect the local laws in the USA as a traveller

Here are some reasons why one should always respect the local laws in the USA as a tourist;

• Similar to other countries, the USA has its own laws that must be obeyed by everyone equally, be they locals or visitors.
• Not following or obeying local laws in the USA can be a serious offence and may involve you in some legal trouble. Also, the USA is pretty strict with its laws and regulations, and you can even put your life at risk by breaking them.
• Every tourist must respect a country’s local culture and traditions during their visit. It is not just a major sign of respect but also helps people connect with the locals.

What to do if you run into legal trouble in the USA

If you run into some legal trouble during your visit to the USA, here are the things you can do;

• Inform the local authorities and offer complete cooperation from your end.
• Inform your home country’s Embassy or Consulate about the situation. This mainly applies in case you get detained or arrested, where you can seek Consular Access to a representative from your home country’s Embassy or Consulate.
• Depending on your situation, you can consult a lawyer in the USA or from your home country about it.
• In case you find yourself responsible for third-party damage, you can tackle the situation with your travel insurance by letting your insurer know.

Where to find help in the USA as a tourist

Here are some examples of places and entities where you can find help as a tourist in the USA;

• The Embassy of your home country in the USA,
• Law enforcement officers or police stations,
• Travel help desk in major transport terminals and tourist hotspots, and
• Local organisations or groups for helping tourists and visitors in the USA.

Things to avoid when in the USA

Following are some things that you should avoid and be aware of when visiting the USA;

• Smoking is prohibited in most public spaces. So, before lighting one out, ask permission or enquire about it from the local authorities.
• Don’t make inappropriate gestures to others in the USA as it can start unnecessary conflict if done in front of the wrong individuals.
• Not tipping after eating at restaurants and cafes is a big no-no. Tipping culture is a real thing in the USA, with the industrial norms being around 15-20%.
• You should refrain from making bad remarks or hurtful comments about race, gender or politics in the USA, especially as a tourist.
• People in the USA don’t appreciate unnecessary stares, so keep that in mind when in public.
• Avoid travelling to the USA without travel health insurance because if you need medical assistance, it can cost you a fortune.
• Do not trespass on private property as it is illegal, and you can even get shot for it.
• In case you get pulled over by the cops while travelling in the vehicle, do not get outside or approach the cops. Seat patiently with your hands visible and do as directed by the law enforcement officer.

If you run into some legal trouble during your visit to the USA, here are the things you can do;

• Inform the local authorities and offer complete cooperation from your end.
• Inform your home country’s Embassy or Consulate about the situation. This mainly applies in case you get detained or arrested, where you can seek Consular Access to a representative from your home country’s Embassy or Consulate.
• Depending on your situation, you can consult a lawyer in the USA or from your home country about it.
• In case you find yourself responsible for third-party damage, you can tackle the situation with your travel insurance by letting your insurer know.

Take-Home Lessons

These are some of the things every tourist must be aware of prior to their trip to the USA. While America is a fantastic international holiday destination, its laws and regulations are quite different and stricter than most other places in the world. If you are planning your visit to the USA, make sure to do your own research so that your trip stays free from any major inconveniences.

FAQs

1. Is tipping mandatory in the USA?

Tipping is not mandatory in the USA but is generally expected when you avail service at a restaurant, cafe, etc. Not giving tips is considered rude, and so is a tip amount below 15-20%.

2. Do I still need to provide PCR COVID-19 test results to enter the USA?

No. As of June 22nd 2022, visitors coming to the USA are no longer required to present PCR COVID-19 test results.

3. Is the USA safe for tourists?

The USA is considered pretty safe for tourists than most other countries in the world. However, there are some places that are better to avoid, especially if you want to stay clear of any trouble.

4. Do I need to show my ID everywhere when travelling in the USA?

Foreigners in the USA may be asked by the respective authorities to show their IDs at most places. It may seem a bit insulting, but it's best to get used to it as a foreigner.