Is It Legal to Ride in the Back of a Pickup Truck in SC?

It is a common sight to see people riding in the back of a pickup truck in South Carolina, but is it legal? The answer depends on the age of the passengers and the circumstances.

Children Under 21 – According to South Carolina law, any person under 21 years old is prohibited from riding in the open bed of a pickup truck unless it is equipped with sideboards or other safety features that prevent them from falling out. It is also illegal for anyone, regardless of age, to ride in the back of a pickup truck while it is being used to transport hazardous materials or flammable liquids.

Adults Over 21 – For adults over 21, there are no laws prohibiting them from riding in the open bed of a pickup truck as long as they have free access to both sides and the tailgate can be securely closed. However, this does not mean that it is safe or recommended. Riding in the back of a pickup truck can be dangerous and should be avoided whenever possible.

Safety Precautions – If you do decide to ride in the back of a pickup truck, there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind. Always wear your seat belt and ensure that all passengers are wearing theirs too.

Make sure that you are securely seated and not likely to fall off if the vehicle takes any sudden turns or stops suddenly. Additionally, never stand up while riding and keep your head below any items that may be loaded into the back of the truck so as not to hit it if you experience sudden jolts or bumps.

Conclusion – In conclusion, it is legal for adults over 21 years old to ride in the back of a pickup truck in South Carolina as long as they have free access to both sides and the tailgate can be securely closed. However, due to safety concerns, it is highly recommended that those under 21 refrain from doing so and always take extra precautions when riding with adults over 21.

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Susan Delgado