In Missouri, riding in the bed of a pickup truck is not illegal, but it is far from advisable. Missouri has no specific law prohibiting passengers from riding in the back of a truck, but there are still dangers to consider.
Safety Considerations
In the event of an accident, passengers in the bed of a truck are particularly vulnerable as they are not secured by seat belts or other restraints. A passenger may be thrown out of the bed if a sudden stop or swerve occurs.
Even without an accident, passengers in the bed of a truck can be injured if they are not careful. The wind and weather can cause objects to fly at them, and bumps and potholes can cause them to become airborne.
Legal Considerations
Even though it is not illegal to ride in the bed of a truck in Missouri, it is important to remember that other laws still apply when doing so. For example, Missouri requires all drivers and passengers to wear seat belts when traveling in a vehicle on public roads. This law applies regardless of whether you’re sitting inside the cab or riding in the back of a truck.
Noise Pollution
Another important consideration when riding in the bed of a truck is noise pollution. Without proper protection from noise (such as ear plugs), riders can easily become exposed to dangerous levels of sound from passing vehicles and other sources. This can lead to long-term hearing damage.
Conclusion
In short, while it may be legal for passengers to ride in the back of trucks in Missouri, there are many safety risks that should be taken into account before doing so. It is important for drivers and passengers alike to remember that even though riding in the back may not technically be illegal under state law, other laws (such as seat belt requirements) still apply when operating on public roads.
Is It Legal To Ride In The Bed Of A Truck In Missouri?
Yes, it is legal for passengers to ride in the back of trucks on public roads in Missouri; however, there are safety risks associated with this activity that should be taken into consideration before doing so.
