In most states there are laws (statutes) and local ordinances (enacted by cities or towns) that place restrictions on people (and animals) riding in the open (uncovered) bed of a truck. But the specifics of these laws vary significantly from state to state

In approximately 19 states there is no state law against riding in the open bed of truck. These states include:

• Alabama

• Alaska

• Delaware

• Idaho

• Illinois

• Iowa (local ordinances may prohibit it)

• Kentucky

• Minnesota

• Mississippi

• Montana

• New Hampshire

• North Dakota

• Oklahoma

• South Dakota

• Vermont

• Washington

• West Virginia

• Wyoming

Laws are constantly evolving—a state legislature may enact a new statute or a city or town may pass a new ordinance and change the law at any time—so always be sure to determine the current status of the law in your state, city, or town.

In Louisiana (LA), state law does place restrictions on riding in the open bed of a truck. According to Louisiana Revised Statutes 32:284, it is generally prohibited for any person to ride in the bed or load-carrying area of a pickup truck or flatbed truck on the interstate highway system. There are exceptions to this rule, such as for employees on duty, participants in parades, and situations where seating is not available inside the vehicle for all passengers. However, local ordinances may impose additional restrictions or provide further exceptions to these rules. It is important for individuals in Louisiana to check both state statutes and local ordinances to understand the specific legal requirements and restrictions regarding riding in the open bed of a truck in their area. As laws can change, it is also crucial to ensure that one is referencing the most current legal information.