Is It Legal to Ride in the Bed of a Pickup Truck in Texas?
Yes, adults age 18 and over may legally ride in the open bed of a pickup truck in Texas. However, just because riding in the bed of a truck may be legal does not mean that it is a great idea, and those who participate in this activity could be seriously injured if they are involved in a car accident.
Keep reading below to learn all the details about riding in the bed of a truck in Texas.
Texas Law on Riding in the Bed of a Pickup Truck
Many states have no laws on the books that dictate who may ride in the bed of a pickup truck; however, Texas law specifies who may do this and when this activity is permitted.
There are no restrictions on riding in the bed of a pickup truck for adults age 18 and older, but children under 18 are not permitted to ride in the bed of a truck unless the situation fits into one of the exceptions specified in the law, such as:
- The vehicle is being driven or towed in a parade.
- There is an emergency.
- The vehicle is being operated on a beach.
- The truck is the only vehicle owned and operated by the household.
- The vehicle is operating as an approved hayride.
In the situations above, children are permitted to ride in the bed of a truck. Most of these situations involve driving at very slow speeds, so the risk of children being hurt by riding in the bed is relatively low.
Penalties for Riding in the Bed of a Truck
Since adults may legally ride in the bed of a truck in Texas, there are only a few situations in which a violation of the law may occur. This almost always involves children riding in the back of the truck.
The driver of the truck may face misdemeanor charges if they allow a child to ride in the bed, and these charges are punishable by a fine of at least $25 but not more than $200.
Risks of Riding in the Bed of a Pickup Truck
Although riding in the bed of a pickup truck is legal in Texas, it can be quite hazardous. If you are involved in an accident, passengers riding in the bed could be thrown from the vehicle because most pickup trucks do not have restraint systems in the bed.
They may suffer catastrophic injuries, such as:
- Brain injuries
- Loss of limbs
- Broken bones
- Internal organ damage
- Permanent disfigurement
- Internal bleeding
Truck beds do not have seat belts, and seat belt usage has been shown to significantly decrease your chances of serious injury or death during an accident.
What to Do if You Are Hurt in an Accident
If you are injured in an accident while riding in the bed of a truck, you should get immediate medical treatment for your injuries. Notify the police so that they can respond to the scene and perform an initial investigation.
Next, talk to an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you obtain compensation for your injuries. If you were riding in the bed of a pickup truck, the insurance company will likely want to blame you for your injuries. Your lawyer can help defend you against these allegations and help you get the compensation you are owed.
Contact Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers Today for a Free Consultation With a Dallas Truck Accident Lawyer
Before you decide to hop in the bed of a pickup truck, make sure you fully understand the law and the risks associated with this behavior. Just because an activity is legal does not necessarily mean it is safe. If you do find yourself injured in an accident, contact Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers to arrange a free consultation with a Dallas truck accident lawyer.
We proudly serve in Dallas County and its surrounding areas:
Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers
1825 Market Center Blvd # 350, Dallas, TX 75207
Phone: (214) 556-8321
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