Hamza
Ever seen someone riding in the back of a pickup truck, flying down the highway like it’s a scene from a movie? Or maybe you’ve thought about biking home after a few drinks because you didn’t want to drive. All of these might sound harmless, but they could actually land you in legal trouble.
So let’s answer the real question:
Is it illegal to ride in the bed of a truck?
And while we’re at it —
Is it illegal to ride a bike drunk in New Jersey? What about without a helmet? Or even on a horse down a regular road?
Let’s unpack all of this.
🛻 Is It Illegal to Ride in the Bed of a Truck?
Yes, in most cases. In New Jersey, riding in the bed of a truck is illegal for anyone under 18, and even for adults, it’s only allowed in specific circumstances (like farming or parades). On public roads, especially highways, riding unrestrained in a truck bed can result in fines, traffic violations, and serious injuries if there’s an accident.
While some states are more lenient, New Jersey is strict about passenger safety, even in trucks.
🚴 Is It Illegal to Ride a Bike Drunk in New Jersey?
This one surprises a lot of people:
Yes, it can be illegal.
While New Jersey’s DUI laws apply primarily to motor vehicles, bicyclists riding under the influence can still be charged under other statutes, especially if:
- You’re causing a hazard to yourself or others
- You’re involved in an accident
- You’re riding erratically or ignoring traffic rules
Police can detain or cite you if they believe you’re impaired while riding a bike. It’s also possible to be held civilly or criminally liable if you injure someone while drunk biking. The safest option? Don’t ride anything — bike, scooter, or skateboard — if you’ve been drinking.
⛑️ Is It Illegal to Ride a Bike Without a Helmet?
In New Jersey:
- Under 17? You must wear a helmet — no exceptions.
- 17 or older? You’re not legally required to, but it’s still strongly recommended.
This law applies to bikes, rollerblades, scooters, and skateboards. Police may not stop adults, but kids caught without helmets can get warnings or tickets — and parents may be held responsible.
🐎 Is It Illegal to Ride a Horse on the Road?
No — in fact, riding a horse on public roads is legal in New Jersey and many other states. But that doesn’t mean you can gallop around carelessly. You’re expected to follow traffic rules:
- Ride with the flow of traffic
- Use hand signals
- Wear reflective gear at night
Horses are considered “non-motorized vehicles” under traffic laws, so you’re responsible for road safety just like a driver or cyclist.
✅ Summary: What’s Legal and What’s Not?
| Activity | Legal in NJ? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Riding in the bed of a truck | ❌ Mostly illegal | Legal for adults in specific situations |
| Riding a bike drunk | ⚠️ Risk of citations & liability | Dangerous + legally tricky |
| Riding a bike without a helmet | ✅ for 17+, ❌ for under 17 | Helmet highly recommended |
| Riding a horse on the road | ✅ Legal | Must follow traffic rules |
