No, cursing while driving is not specifically illegal in West Virginia—despite “weird law” lists claiming otherwise. A general profane swearing statute (§61-8-15) bans public profanity with a minor $1 fine via justice court, but it doesn’t target drivers or vehicles.
Law Details
The 1931-era rule applies broadly to public profane cursing or drunkenness by those “arrived at the age of discretion,” rarely enforced today.
- No vehicle-specific profanity ban exists in WV traffic code (§17C series), which covers reckless driving, DUI, and pointable offenses like speeding but ignores speech.
- Local ordinances (e.g., Weirton §521.06) mirror the state rule, fining public swearing without driving ties.
- Modern issues fall under disorderly conduct (§61-6-1B) if cursing endangers others, but free speech protections limit roadside enforcement.
Driving Rules
WV focuses on safety, not language—e.g., no profanity in reckless driving definitions.
| Offense | Penalty | Driving Link? |
|---|---|---|
| Public Swearing | $1 fine | No |
| Reckless Driving | 6 points | Behavior-based |
| Disorderly | Misdemeanor | If public threat |
Myths amplify outdated codes; vent freely in your car barring road rage.
