Understanding the Continental United States: A Legal Perspective

Definition & Meaning

The term Continental United States refers to the contiguous states and the District of Columbia. It specifically excludes Alaska and Hawaii. This definition is important for various legal and regulatory contexts, as it clarifies which areas are included when discussing laws or policies that apply to the mainland United States.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Here are a couple of examples of how the term is used:

  • Example 1: A shipping company may specify that its services only cover the Continental United States, meaning they will not deliver to Alaska or Hawaii.
  • Example 2: An insurance policy may state that coverage is valid only within the Continental United States, excluding claims from Alaska and Hawaii. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
United States Includes all 50 states and territories. Broader than the Continental United States, which excludes Alaska and Hawaii.
Contiguous United States Refers to the 48 adjoining states. Similar to the Continental United States but does not include Alaska or Hawaii.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are dealing with legal documents or agreements that reference the Continental United States, ensure you understand the geographical limitations. If you need to draft or review such documents, consider using templates from US Legal Forms for guidance. For complex matters, seeking professional legal assistance is advisable.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Included Areas 48 contiguous states, District of Columbia
Excluded Areas Alaska, Hawaii
Legal Relevance Contracts, insurance, shipping regulations

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It refers to the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia, excluding Alaska and Hawaii.