No, riding unrestrained in the back of a pickup truck is illegal under Mississippi Code § 63-3-605, with exceptions for agricultural, parade, or emergency vehicles. Local ordinances in Jackson and Gulfport impose additional fines, and the 2026 Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) safety initiative targets enforcement in high-incident zones.
Key Regulations for Riding in the Back of a Truck in Mississippi
- Seat Belt Mandate: Occupants must use seat belts if the vehicle is traveling over 25 mph, per MDOT’s 2025 safety protocol revisions.
- Age Restrictions: Minors under 18 are prohibited from riding in truck beds unless supervised by a licensed adult in an agricultural context.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities like Biloxi and Tupelo enforce supplementary penalties, including $100 fines for violations detected via traffic cameras.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) conducts periodic “Truck Bed Safety” checkpoints, particularly in the Delta and along US-49, aligning with federal NHTSA 2026 guidelines. Commercial vehicles transporting passengers must comply with FMCSA § 392.16, which requires enclosed seating for non-employees. Violations may result in misdemeanor charges under § 63-3-607, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses. Always verify county-specific rules, as some jurisdictions (e.g., Hinds County) impose stiffer penalties during agricultural festivals.