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 New Hampshire, there is no specific state statute that prohibits riding in the open bed of a truck. This means that, at the state level, there are no blanket restrictions against passengers traveling in the uncovered bed of a pickup truck. However, it is important to note that local ordinances in various cities or towns within New Hampshire may impose their own restrictions or prohibitions on this practice. Additionally, while state law may not explicitly forbid riding in the back of a truck, there could be other related safety laws and regulations that indirectly affect this activity, such as seat belt laws or child safety requirements. As laws are subject to change, it is crucial to check the most current regulations at both the state and local levels to ensure compliance.