1 insanely dangerous pickup truck activity is still legal in 20 states
One incredibly dangerous pickup truck activity is still legal in 20 states. As safety standards for trucks increase, how did this slip through the cracks? At least in states where it’s legal to ride a motorcycle without the helmet only the driver and sometimes their one passenger are only impacted.
It’s legal to ride in the back of a pickup truck in 20 states
In the majority of America, it’s illegal to ride in the back of a pickup truck. However, in 20 states, passengers are free to ride in the bed of a truck if they want.
According to NJ105, it’s legal to ride in the back of a truck in:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Delaware
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kentucky
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Montana
- New Hampshire
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- South Dakota
- Vermont
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
Hundreds of people die as a result of their decision to ride in the back of a truck each year. Plus, about 50 children under the age of 50 are killed from riding in the back each year.
A majority of deaths related to riding in the cargo areas between trucks occur in males between the ages of 15 and 29.
The highest risk of fatalities occurs when a person is ejected from the rear of a pickup truck. They often strike the pavement, windshields of other vehicles, and nearby structures.
However, passengers are at risk during collisions as well. As cars and SUVs hit the rear or sides of a truck bed, occupants may get struck by the windshield. There’s also the risk of the truck flipping over and crushing passengers.
Truck beds can make a great place to hang out, when not in motion. However, they aren’t designed to carry passengers and don’t provide protection during accidents.
In states where riding in the truck bed is illegal, the drivers are usually held responsible. Drivers with passengers in the truck bed might be fined.
