No, riding in the back of an unenclosed truck bed is illegal in Massachusetts under state traffic laws, with exceptions for agricultural or emergency transport. Violations carry fines up to $200 under MGL c.90, §13A, enforced by municipal police and the Registry of Motor Vehicles. Local ordinances, such as Boston’s 2023 ordinance prohibiting such transport in city limits, further restrict the practice.
Key Regulations for Riding in the Back of a Truck in Massachusetts
- MGL c.90, §13A prohibits transporting passengers in an open truck bed unless the vehicle is designed for agricultural, construction, or emergency use, with seating and safety restraints.
- Local ordinances in cities like Boston, Worcester, and Springfield impose additional bans, including fines for drivers and passengers, with enforcement by municipal traffic units.
- Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS 210) apply to commercial trucks, requiring secure seating and restraints for passengers, which open truck beds typically lack.
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and municipal authorities actively monitor compliance, particularly in high-traffic urban areas. Recent legislative proposals, such as 2026’s proposed amendments to MGL c.90, §13A, aim to expand penalties for repeat offenders and commercial operators.