Is it legal in Florida to ride in the back of a pickup truck? Check the law

Want to feel the fresh air? Or grab the only open seat in the vehicle?

That may drive you to the back of a pickup truck.

But does Florida law allow you to ride there?

Here’s what to know:

Can anyone ride in the back of a pickup truck?

According to Florida law, adults 18 and older can ride in the bed of a pickup truck without a seat belt as long as they are sitting flat on the bed, and not elevated on any surface like a cooler or cardboard box.

Wha tabout kids riding in a pickup truck bed?

Passengers 17 and younger can ride in the back of a pickup as long as the bed has been outfitted to include secure seating and seat belts.

There are a few exceptions to that allow minors to ride in a normal pickup bed without restrictions:

• In a parade.
• In a county that has exempted itself from this restriction by majority vote.
• If there is a medical emergency and the minor is accompanied by an adult.

Is there a fine for illegal riding in a pickup truck?

Drivers can be fined $30 for allowing a passenger to ride in the bed of a pickup unlawfully. The fine doubles if the passenger is allowed to ride on the hood, fender, or in the trunk.