Defensive Driving Rule #65: Don’t Ride in Pick-Up Truck Beds
The Bed of a Pick-Up Truck: Not for Passengers or Pets
The Danger of Riding in the Bed
The bed of a pick-up truck is designed for transporting cargo, not people or pets. Allowing passengers or animals to ride in the back of your truck puts them at significant risk. Even if you are a cautious driver, you cannot control the actions of others on the road. A sudden stop, a collision, or even a sharp turn can result in passengers being thrown from the truck bed.
The Mechanics of a Collision
In the event of a crash, the forces involved can be immense. The sudden deceleration or impact can launch anyone in the truck bed into the air. Holding on is often futile, even at slower speeds. In many unfortunate cases, passengers ejected from the bed have been run over by the truck itself or by other vehicles.
Real-Life Tragedies
Consider the tragic story of a young woman from a nearby neighborhood. She was riding in the open back of a Jeep and was thrown out when the Jeep rolled over after being hit by another vehicle. This young lady, who always wore a seat belt, made an exception this one time because there weren’t enough seat belts to go around. She prioritized her friends’ safety over her own and paid the ultimate price. She was just seventeen years old. Her family and friends undoubtedly still mourn her loss deeply.
The Illusion of Safety: Camper Shells and Roll Bars
Some drivers believe that covering the truck bed with a camper shell makes it safe for passengers. However, camper shells are typically lightweight and not designed to withstand the forces of a crash. In a rollover, a camper shell can collapse like an aluminum can, providing little to no protection. Even roll bars, unless equipped with proper seating and seat belts, do not offer sufficient safety for passengers in the truck bed.
Legal Considerations
While many states do not have specific laws prohibiting passengers in the bed of a pick-up truck, some states have regulations that restrict certain individuals from riding there. For instance, Arizona’s child safety restraint law requires that any passenger under the age of five be properly secured in a child seat with a seat belt. This effectively makes it illegal for young children to ride in areas of the vehicle without seat belts, including the truck bed.
Prioritizing Safety
The individuals who ride with you are often those you care about the most. Regardless of the law, it is essential to prioritize their safety. Ensure that all passengers and pets are secured inside the vehicle, using appropriate restraints such as seat belts and child seats. The open bed of a pick-up truck offers no protection in the event of an accident and exposes occupants to significant risk.
In summary, the bed of a pick-up truck should only be used for transporting cargo. People and pets should always ride inside the vehicle, secured by seat belts or appropriate restraints. By taking these precautions, you can protect your loved ones and prevent unnecessary tragedies.
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