Quote:
Originally Posted by concretegurl  Cargo areas refers to the back of vans, trucks with canopies etc...not open beds on trucks |
I just saw this -- Sorry but that is NOT true. The cargo area is the back of a pickup truck. They specifically talk about enclosed cargo areas and open if you read that reference.
Check out the Insurance Institute article:
Cargo area laws You will see some states have laws allowing riding in the back for younger passengers IF the cargo area is enclosed. Some specify fully-enclosed on all 4 sides. But it most definately is calling the back -- bed of the pick up truck the cargo area.
Here is one quote from that page.
"
The beds of pickup trucks are designed to carry cargo, not people, and are not designed to provide protection in a crash. In addition, children and adults can be easily ejected from cargo areas at relatively low speeds as a result of a sharp turn to avoid an obstacle or crash."
Florida is NOW a yes as to having restrictions for the following: "
all persons 18 and older; persons 17 and younger in an enclosed cargo area; persons 17 and younger on non-limited-access roads unless local law exempts them from the prohibition on minors riding the cargo areas of pickup trucks and flatbeds; persons 17 and younger on non-limited-access roads in a seat fitted "
Not sure what you are referring to as a canopy but if it is a camper shell or other enclosure, then some states make the laws inapplicable IF the cargo area is covered, as Maryland.
The different areas of a pickup are the occupant compartment and the cargo area. Since I previously listed my reference, I am not sure why you are arguing the point????
