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

When you drive through Los Angeles, you might see someone riding in the bed of a pickup truck and wonder, is it legal to ride in the bed of a truck in California? The short answer is no, though there are a few exceptions. For example, passengers may be allowed if the truck is equipped with federally approved restraints.

The risks and legal consequences of this practice are not fully known to most people. That is why we are here to explain if and when these laws apply to you and your rights if you get into an accident.

Laws regarding riding in the back of a truck in California

California Vehicle Code §21712(a) states that no motor vehicle passenger may ride in a vehicle’s cargo area unless the cargo area is constructed with appropriate seating and safety restraints adhered to passenger requirements. This law is in place to minimize the chance of serious injuries or fatalities if an accident occurs.

However, exceptions exist:

• Parades or special events: Passengers may be allowed to ride in the back of a truck if that truck is a part of a parade approved by local authorities.
• Private property: If a vehicle is driven on private land, state traffic laws may not be applicable.
• Safety devices: The law allows for riding if a truck bed is equipped with an approved sturdy structure and seatbelts and the passenger is 18 years or older.

In the vast majority of circumstances, riding in the bed of a moving pickup truck on public roads is illegal. The logic of these laws is simple: cargo-area passengers in crashes are much more vulnerable than people belted at a seat inside a vehicle.

The Dangers of Riding in a Truck Bed

As thrilling as it is to ride in the back of a pickup truck, it’s a dangerous way to travel. Truck beds lack critical safety features such as seat belts, airbags, and protective enclosures, which are standard in regular vehicle seating. This leaves passengers much more susceptible in the case of sudden stops, collisions, or rollovers.

Even low-speed collisions can be fatal for people riding in the cargo areas, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). A sudden turn or jagged bump in the road can launch an unrestrained passenger out of the truck bed, causing traumatic injuries; additionally, if cargo shifts or road debris strikes, passengers riding in the back can be seriously injured.

From the driver’s perspective, carrying passengers in the truck bed can also impact vehicle stability, especially at high speeds or on rough surfaces, making it more difficult to maintain control.

Most Frequent Truck Bed Accident Injuries

The dangers facing passengers in the bed of a pickup truck are not theoretical—real accidents occur, and the outcomes can be deadly. Some common injuries are:

• Severe head injuries: If the passenger is thrown from the truck, they may land on hard pavement, causing traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) that can result in lasting cognitive disabilities.
• Spinal cord damage: A fall from a moving truck can result in serious spinal damage, potentially leading to paralysis or chronic pain.
• Fractures and broken bones: Sudden stopping or being ejected from the truck can break arms, legs, ribs, and more, leading to extensive medical needs.
• Lacerations and abrasions: Contact with sharp metal, loose cargo, or rough surfaces may cause deep cuts and scrapes, which can lead to serious infections if not properly treated.

These injuries can come with expensive medical bills, lost wages, and emotional pain, requiring long-term rehabilitation and severely disrupting daily life.

Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

Richard Barnes: “As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

Years of Experience: 30+ years
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