Is It Legal to Ride in the Bed of a Truck in Ohio?

In Ohio, it is legal to ride in the bed of a truck, but there are certain restrictions that must be followed. According to Ohio Revised Code § 4513.21, no person shall ride in the bed of a motor vehicle while the motor vehicle is in motion on any public street or highway.

However, there are certain exceptions to this rule. An individual may ride in the bed of a truck if they are under 18 years old and accompanied by an adult. It is also allowed for persons over 18 years old if the truck is being used for agricultural purposes or for parades, fairs, or similar activities.

Riding in the bed of a truck is not recommended as it can be dangerous. According to Ohio State Highway Patrol Sergeant Vincent Shirey, “The safest place for anyone riding in a vehicle is inside the cab with seat belts properly fastened.”

In addition to safety concerns, there can also be legal repercussions for riding in the bed of a truck. If someone were to get injured while riding in the bed of a truck, they could potentially sue the driver and/or owner of the vehicle. This could result in hefty fines or legal fees.

Conclusion:

It is legal to ride in the bed of a truck in Ohio under certain circumstances; however, it is not recommended due to safety concerns and potential legal repercussions. It is best for individuals to stay inside the cab with seat belts properly fastened when traveling on public streets and highways.

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Stephen Dunn