Texas Open-Truck-Bed Accidents: State Laws & Accident Prevention

This week we covered a serious traffic accident between a pickup truck and a commercial 18-wheeler that took place on the on US-59 on the San Jacinto River Bridge. While seven people were injured in the Texas truck accident, the only person seriously injured was the man traveling in the open truck bed of the pickup. According to news reports, 38-year old Luis Pablo Lopez of Conroe suffered serious head and neck injuries and was rushed to the hospital via air ambulance.

Unfortunately, Texas truck bed accidents are somewhat common. Let's learn more.

Texas law for riding in open truck beds

It is illegal for children under the age of 18 to ride in the open bed of a truck in the state of Texas. Breaking the law can result in a ticket costing up to $200. However, there are a few exceptions: children may ride in the back of a truck if it is for a parade, for a hayride, for farm-related activities, in the case of an emergency, or on a beach. In addition, children may ride in the back of a truck if the vehicle is the only mode of transportation for a family.

Adults may legally ride in the bed of a truck.

Accident prevention for riding in the bed of a truck

Riding in an open truck bed is significantly less safe then riding in the cab of a truck. Since truck beds are open and do not contain seatbelts, the chances of being ejected from the truck bed (or being crushed by the rolling truck) are much higher, as are your chances of serious injury.

Generally, it is safest not to ride in an open truck bed at all if possible. If you must, safety advocates recommend traveling at low speeds and not traveling on busy highways or interstates. Drivers should avoid speeding, sudden maneuvers, and roadways with speed bumps or potholes. Never stand in a moving truck bed.

If you have been involved in a Texas pickup truck accident that involved people riding in the truck bed, speak with a Houston accident attorney about your case. Call Vujasinovic & Beckcom today and schedule a meeting to discuss the legal aspects of your case.