How “free” is driving if you require a license from the state to do it, and to register with the state all the implements of doing it, and must pay taxes to the state for every mile you go (gas tax), and can only drive on government approved rights of way?
You are really at the total mercy of the state when it comes to travel if you rely only on your car.
OTOH, public conveyances (trains, planes, buses) can be used by all without any governmental distraint.
Its bizzarre that people have such a backwards view of “freedom” as what you expressed, but, well, there you have it. Socialism and legal restraint is “freedom” and freedom using conveyance provided by private corporations is being constrained.