Navigating the Gray Area: Understanding the Complexities of Riding in Pickup Truck Beds in Illinois

In Illinois, adults can legally ride in the back of a pickup truck, a practice allowed in 20 states without specific laws against it. This creates a unique situation for drivers and passengers, as the absence of prohibitions leads to confusion regarding safety regulations and enforcement in the state. Despite the legal allowance, Illinois’ vehicle safety laws impose strict seatbelt requirements, significantly complicating the scenario of riding in a pickup truck bed. According to the Illinois Vehicle Code, all drivers and passengers aged eight and older are required to wear properly fitted safety belts in … Read more

Ford Motor Co. Settles $2.5 Billion Lawsuit Following Tragic Super Duty Truck Fatalities in Georgia

Metro Atlanta—Ford Motor Co. has recently settled two significant lawsuits in Georgia that resulted in landmark jury verdicts of $1.7 billion and $2.5 billion, respectively. These cases stemmed from tragic incidents involving the deaths of two couples, Herman and Debra Mills, and Voncile and Melvin Hill, which centered around allegations of inadequate roof strength in the company’s Super Duty trucks. The legal disputes date back over a decade, during which the plaintiffs sought justice for the fatalities that occurred during rollover accidents. The Mills, who died in a crash in August 2022, prompted a jury … Read more

New Food Truck Regulations Set to Launch on November 1: What Vendors Need to Know

Oklahoma City, Okla. — A new set of regulations governing food trucks is set to take effect, bringing significant changes for vendors operating in the area. The updated laws will introduce a slew of requirements aimed at enhancing safety and compliance within the mobile food industry, which has seen explosive growth in recent years. Under the new rules, food truck operators will be required to obtain various permits, ensuring that they meet health and safety standards. These permits will include health inspections, which are intended to guarantee that food handling and preparation adhere to state … Read more

Texas Food Truck Operators Celebrate New Laws Aimed at Boosting Business, But Safety Concerns Rise

Longview, Texas—Food truck operators in Longview are optimistic about two new state laws aimed at reducing regulatory burdens, believing these changes will foster business growth. However, city officials express concerns regarding potential impacts on customer safety due to the shift in oversight. In the recent legislative session, Texas lawmakers passed House Bill 2844, also referred to as the Food Truck Freedom Bill. This law transfers the responsibility of permitting, regulation, and inspection of food trucks from local municipalities to the Texas Department of State Health Services. Starting in July 2026, food truck vendors will be … Read more