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

Riding in the back of a pickup truck is a popular activity in many areas of the United States, but it can be dangerous and illegal. In Washington State, it is illegal to ride in the bed of a pickup truck, with some exceptions.

Washington State law prohibits any person from riding in the back of a pickup truck on any public roadway. This means that no person may ride in the bed of a pickup truck while it is in motion on any public street, highway, or other right-of-way. This law applies to all motor vehicles, including passenger cars and trucks.

There are some exceptions to this rule that allow people to ride in the back of a pickup truck. These exceptions include: if the bed of the truck has been modified to include seating that meets certain requirements; if there are special circumstances such as an emergency or parade; or if the vehicle is not being operated on public roadways. In addition, children under 12 years old may ride in the back of a pickup truck only if they are seated securely and restrained by seatbelts or other safety equipment approved by the Washington State Department of Transportation.

Conclusion: It is illegal to ride in the back of a pickup truck on any public roadway in Washington State, with some limited exceptions outlined above. To ensure safety and adhere to state laws, people should avoid riding in the back of a pickup truck whenever possible.

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Karen Watkins