Is It Legal to Ride in a Truck Bed in Utah?

In Utah, it is illegal to ride in the back of a pickup truck, trailer, or other open-box vehicle. This applies to both adults and minors.

According to Utah law, a person who rides in an unenclosed area of a vehicle can be charged with a class C misdemeanor. This carries with it a potential jail sentence of up to three months as well as a fine of up to $750.

The law is designed to protect people from potential injury due to the lack of protection from the elements and the fact that occupants are not secured inside the vehicle. This means that even if someone is riding with the driver in an open-box vehicle, they are still breaking the law.

There are some exceptions, however. It is legal for children under 12 years old who weigh less than 100 pounds to ride in the back of an open-bed truck or trailer if they are secured by seatbelts or other safety devices. However, this exemption only applies when traveling on roads where the speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less.

Additionally, riding in the bed of a truck is allowed on private property such as farms and ranches.

In summary, it is illegal for adults and minors alike to ride in the back of an open-bed truck, trailer, or other type of vehicle on public roads in Utah. There are some exceptions for children under 12 who weigh less than 100 pounds and for those driving on private property such as farms and ranches. Anyone found violating this law can be charged with a class C misdemeanor which carries with it potential jail time and fines.

Conclusion: Is it legal to ride in a truck bed in Utah? No, it is not legal for adults or minors alike to ride in an open-bed truck or trailer on public roads in Utah unless they meet specific requirements.

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Susan Delgado