> you are overstating the degree to which this culturally and legally acceptable

In Florida it's a $150 fine [1]. If you do it again within 3 years, they charge you $250. If you do it again within that three-year period, they'll just charge you $500 each time. It's not even a crime [2].

[1] https://www.valuepenguin.com/auto-insurance/florida/penaltie...

[2] https://www.kevinkuliklaw.com/is-it-a-crime-to-drive-without...