Riding in the Back of a Pickup Truck: Understanding Washington State Laws
When discussing attending a protest or participating in a parade, the legality of riding in the back of a pickup truck often comes up. The common belief is that it’s legal to ride in the back if all seat belts inside the vehicle are in use. But does it matter if the seat belts are being used, and can cargo in the front blocking the seat belts suffice? Let’s examine the laws in Washington state.
Parade Rules vs. Regular Traffic Laws
The legality of riding in the back of a pickup truck largely depends on whether you’re participating in a permitted parade or not. During a permitted parade, different rules apply as governed by the local municipality or the Washington Department of Transportation if state highways are used. In such cases, most traffic laws are waived, except for serious offenses like driving while impaired.
However, without a permit, a procession is considered a series of minor traffic violations. Participants must follow state traffic laws, including those related to seat belt usage and riding on the outside of vehicles.
Seat Belt Law
Washington state’s seat belt law is straightforward: everyone driving or riding in a vehicle equipped with seat belts must wear one. The law allows an exception if all designated seating positions are occupied, meaning there’s no available seat belt. However, using cargo to block seat belts in the passenger area while having passengers in the cargo area is not considered legal or safe.
Riding on the Outside of a Vehicle
The law prohibits riding on the “running board, fenders, hood, or other outside part of any vehicle,” with exceptions for certain vehicles like emergency vehicles and garbage trucks. The question remains whether the bed of a pickup truck is considered an “outside part.” Previous interpretations by the Washington State Patrol suggested it was legal for children to ride in the back if no seats were available in the cab, prioritizing them for seat belts when adults were also passengers.
Legal Interpretations
Legal experts and law enforcement officers have varying opinions on the matter. Some believe it’s legal under certain conditions, while others disagree. It’s essential to understand that safety should be the primary concern, especially when riding in a pickup bed is not considered the safest option outside controlled environments like parades.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there’s no straightforward answer to the legality of riding in the back of a pickup truck in Washington state, it’s crucial to consider both the specific circumstances (such as participating in a permitted parade) and the general traffic laws. Safety should always be the top priority.
