No, riding unrestrained in the back of a pickup truck is illegal in Alabama under §32-5A-55 of the Code of Alabama (1975), with exceptions for agricultural, parades, or emergency vehicles. The Alabama Department of Public Safety enforces this statute, and local jurisdictions like Birmingham or Huntsville may impose additional ordinances. Violations carry fines up to $500 under municipal codes, though enforcement varies by county.
Key Regulations for Riding in the Back of a Truck in Alabama
- Seat Belt Requirement: Alabama’s seat belt law (Act 2009-729) mandates all occupants to be secured in a seating position, including truck beds, unless exempt under §32-5A-55.
- Local Ordinances: Cities like Montgomery and Mobile have stricter local rules; for example, Montgomery’s municipal code prohibits any person from riding in a truck bed within city limits.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) is drafting updated safety guidelines for 2026, likely expanding restrictions to include all commercial and non-commercial vehicles.
Violations are classified as primary offenses, meaning law enforcement can stop vehicles solely for this infraction. Exemptions exist for licensed farm vehicles during agricultural activities or during official parades with prior permits. Always verify county-specific rules, as enforcement differs between rural and urban areas.