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Currently there is no federal law to regulate roadside memorials; an inconsistent mix of state and municipal policies currently rule the roads.

Here's a sampling of roadside memorial rules across the states: * Colorado, Massachusetts and Wisconsin prohibit roadside memorials.

West Virginia allows roadside memorials, but permits transportation officials to remove them without notice if the markers are deemed a safety hazard or interfere with regular highway maintenance. New York leaves it up to municipalities to implement rules.

In California, roadside memorials are allowed for victims killed in a crash involving alcohol or drugs, and victims' families must pay the state a fee of $1,000.

In Missouri, family members must sign a three-year contract promising to upkeep the memorial site.

Texas and Florida allow only state-funded uniform memorials that can be applied for by contacting the departments of Transportation. Florida memorials are plain white, bear the victim's name and read "Drive Safely."

And New Mexico residents can purchase a sign from the state for $200 that will remain in place for one year.

Source: National Center for Statistics and Analysis, NHTSA, using NCHS (CDC) 2001 Mortality Data.