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

Hopping in the bed of a truck and cruising down the highway might seem thrilling. In some parts of the country, it is fairly common to see someone riding in the bed of a truck down the road. However, before you ride in the bed of a truck, you need to make sure you know the laws in your area. 

While it is technically legal for adults to ride in the bed of a truck in Washington, doing so is not a good idea. Furthermore, regulations exist to guarantee children’s safety while traveling in a truck. Keep reading below to learn more.

Rules for Riding in a Truck Bed in Washington

Washington law does not contain a statute that explicitly prohibits individuals 16 or older from riding in the bed of a truck based on age alone. However, RCW 46.61.660 generally prohibits passengers from riding on any part of a vehicle not intended for passengers—such as truck beds—unless a narrow exception applies. Interpretation may vary depending on local enforcement. 

However, even though it may be technically legal, riding in the back of a truck can be extremely dangerous due to the high risk of injury that passengers in the bed may face.

Children must be properly restrained when riding in a vehicle, and truck beds typically do not have seatbelts or restraint systems. 

Children must be:

• Seated inside the cab of the truck
• Restrained in a proper restraint system, based on the child’s age, height, and weight
• Wearing a seat belt when available

These rules are in place to help protect children from serious injuries in the event of an accident. 

Exceptions to the Law

Exceptions include:

• Parades: Children may be allowed to ride in the back of a truck during an official parade. 
• Farm or rural use: If you drive a truck on your private property or farm, you may allow your child to ride in the back.
• Emergencies: Emergency situations can create an exception to the general rule. If there is no other seat in the vehicle and an emergency arises, a child may be allowed to ride in the truck bed.

Because riding in a truck bed can be incredibly dangerous—especially for kids—it’s important to use extreme caution in any case.

Dangers of Riding in the Bed of a Truck

Riding in the bed of a truck can put you at serious risk of injury in the event of a motor vehicle crash. Since there are no restraints in the bed, you are very likely to be thrown from the truck. 

This type of accident can result in catastrophic injuries, including:

• Brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Loss of limb
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Internal bleeding

Not only can you be hurt in a crash, but flying debris and other dangers could also cause you injuries. 

Contact Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With a Seattle Truck Accident Lawyer

If your child was injured while riding in the bed of a truck—or you have questions about your legal options—don’t wait. Contact the experienced team at Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation. Our Seattle truck accident attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the justice your family deserves.

If you’ve been injured in Seattle, WA, and need legal assistance, contact Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers. Contact our legal team and schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer today. We proudly serve King County in Washington and its surrounding areas. Visit our law office at:

Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers
2101 4th Ave 1030 Seattle, WA 98121
(206) 727 4000
Hours: Open 24/7