Dear Trooper Kathy; Is it legal to hitchhike?Yes it is. I do not recommend it. It is a very dangerous business. If you decide that hitchhiking is your mode of travel, consider the following; "No person shall stand in a roadway for the purpose of soliciting a ride from the driver of any private vehicle." The key word is roadway, you cannot stand in it, and so standing off the roadway would be permissible. This also applies to any person soliciting employment, business or contributions. You cannot be on a freeway/controlled access at all, whether on the road or not; this is posted on the access ramps, and also includes bicycles, ATV’s and snowmobiles.Again, just because the law does not totally prohibit hitchhiking, I would call you crazy to do it. Even if you are stalled, don’t accept rides, wait for help. If it is winter, you should have yourself prepared with a winter survival kit, warm blankets and clothing. Anybody from anywhere can be driving on the roads. Even if they look safe and respectable, don’t get in a car with them. People have cell phones and someone will call sooner or later, or better yet have a cell phone with you when you travel so you can call yourself.If you have any questions regarding traffic safety and or traffic law please write Sgt. Kathy Pederson at Minnesota State Patrol, 1800 East College Drive, Marshall, MN 56258. Sgt. Pederson will not offer advice on specific situations or real events which involve law enforcement.
