Truth behind rule where ‘drivers get ticket for not stopping for hitchhikers’ even though pedestrians are breaking law

THE truth behind the rules for hitchhiking in Alaska has come to light as drivers worry they could be fined for not stopping. 

Drivers in the enormous state are legally allowed to stop for hitchhikers — and even encouraged to do so, as pedestrians stranded in the Alaskan wilderness could be in serious danger.

(Hitchhikers typically signal that they need a ride by sticking out their thumb (stock image) Credit: Getty)

(Alaska roads can be long and isolated, which might be dangerous for hitchhikers (stock image).Credit: Getty)

(Hitchhiking is prohibited in six US states (stock image)Credit: Getty)

However, an urban legend claims that car owners could get a ticket for not stopping for people on the side of the road who need help. Despite speculation, there is nothing in Alaska's law that says drivers would be breaking the law by passing hitchhikers.

No one should put themselves in any unsafe situation, whether or not that includes letting a stranger inside their car. And while hitchhiking is legal in Alaska, pedestrians have to follow a certain set of rules.

No one is allowed to solicit a ride in a way that distracts a driver, according to the state law.

Traditionally, a hitchhiker asks for someone to pick them up by standing by the side of the road and sticking out their thumb. However, the law states they have to do it in a way that doesn't take the driver's attention off the road.

"No pedestrian may be upon or along a roadway in such a manner as to create an unreasonable risk of danger to himself or interfere with the normal flow of traffic," the rule also states.

If the hitchhiker is on the side of the highway, they are also banned from trying to get a job or money from drivers. If there's a sidewalk, pedestrians aren't allowed to walk on the highway except for when they're crossing the road.

Where there's no sidewalk available, hitchhikers walking on the highway are supposed to walk on the shoulder or edge of the road as far as possible from ongoing traffic.

Hitchhiking in Alaska during the winter is extremely dangerous, as parts of the state are known for their freezing cold temperatures and harsh weather.

Plus, the size of the region means there are long stretches of road that are often isolated with limited traffic. The rumors that Alaskans have to pick up hitchhikers might stem from the shared culture of locals.

States where hitchhiking is illegal

(( Hitchhiking is illegal in the following US states)

Nevada/ New Jersey/ New York/ Pennsylvania/ Utah/ Wyoming