Is It Legal to Ride in the Bed of a Truck in Michigan?
It doesn't take a brain surgeon to understand the dangers of riding in the bed of a moving pickup truck. However, every once in a while, you'll see a Michigander going for a joyride down some road.
Just because you see someone doing it, doesn't necessarily mean that it's legal.
In this case, it's all about your age.
Is It Legal to Ride in the Bed of a Truck in Michigan?
Yes and no. According to Michigan.gov, It is unlawful for any person under the age of 18 to ride in the open bed of a pickup at a speed greater than 15 miles per hour on a public roadway. This law went into effect in 2001.
So apparently, if you're over the age of 18, technically you can ride in the bed of a truck without getting a ticket? I was a little confused by this because I always thought that it was illegal regardless of your age. I guess I was wrong.
They say that even if you're over 18, it can be extremely dangerous to ride in the bed of a truck, especially if it is moving faster than 15 mph on roads surrounded by other vehicles.
Keep in mind, this law does not apply to the operator under MCL 257.682b(2) for any of the following:
- A motor vehicle operated as part of a parade pursuant to a permit issued by the governmental unit with jurisdiction over the highway or street.
- A military motor vehicle.
- An authorized emergency vehicle.
- A motor vehicle controlled or operated by an employer or an employee of a farm operation, construction business, or similar enterprise during the course of work activities.
- A motor vehicle used to transport a search and rescue team to and from the site of an emergency.
See Also: Is It Against the Law to Drive Barefoot in the State of Michigan?
I remember as a kid we would ride in the bed of trucks all the time. It really didn't seem like a big deal at the time. Boy, were we wrong.