> 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].
If you can be fined for a behavior, and lose privileges like the ability to operate a motor vehicle, then it is not legally acceptable.