No, riding unrestrained in the back of a truck is illegal in Rhode Island under § 31-23-1 of the General Laws, with exceptions for farm equipment and parades. The Rhode Island State Police and Department of Transportation enforce this as a primary safety violation, citing 2023 crash data showing 14% of truck-related injuries involved unrestrained passengers. Local municipalities may impose additional fines under municipal ordinances.
Key Regulations for Riding in the Back of a Truck in Rhode Island
- Seat Belt Mandate: Passengers in truck beds must use federally approved restraints if the vehicle exceeds 26,000 lbs GVWR (per 49 CFR § 571.208), enforced by the Rhode Island State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit.
- Speed Restrictions: Municipalities like Providence and Warwick prohibit truck bed riding when speeds exceed 25 mph, with violations punishable by fines up to $200 under local traffic codes.
- Age Prohibitions: Children under 12 are barred from truck beds entirely, per Rhode Island Department of Health pediatric safety guidelines, with penalties enforced by child welfare agencies.
The Rhode Island General Assembly’s 2026 session proposes amending § 31-23-1 to align with NHTSA’s “Secure Every Ride” initiative, potentially expanding fines to $500 for repeat offenders. Municipalities such as Cranston and East Providence have already adopted stricter ordinances, requiring truck owners to affix signage warning against unrestrained passengers. Violations are logged in the state’s Traffic Violation Information System (TVIS), impacting insurance premiums.