Walking on the interstate and most freeways is illegal just about everywhere. It got me three nights in jail in Arkansas. five decades ago. No charges. The cop thought I was worth something but I just ate their food and slept on their cot which was a welcome hiatus after 5 days hitchhiking and almost no sleep and little food.`
My hubby hitchhiked through the southwest in late 1960’s. Spent a night or two in some small town jail in Utah. Froze his feet hitchhiking through Flagstaff AZ. I think he would find agreement eith you.