(a) Any person who endeavors by words, gestures, or otherwise to beg, invite, or secure transportation in any motor vehicle on any freeway within the state, except in the case of a bona fide emergency or in the case of sickness, is subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.
(b) Any person who endeavors to solicit a ride in a motor vehicle in the manner described in this section on the traveled portion of any other public highway in this state shall be subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.