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Transportation Commission proclaims June 6 as “Secure Your Load Day” in Mississippi
JACKSON, MISS. – At first instinct, many begin fastening seatbelts for their children and themselves, but what about the load in the back of their pickup truck?
From 2011 to 2014, there have been more than 200,000 crashes caused by road debris, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. From those crashes, it was reported there were 39,000 injuries and 500 deaths during this same four year span.
The Mississippi Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) top priority is the safety of the traveling public.
To help prevent crashes and fatalities caused by debris from unsecured loads, the Mississippi Transportation Commission proclaims June 6 as “Secure Your Load Day.” The decision was unanimous by Commissioners Dick Hall, chair, Central District; Tom King, Southern District; and Mike Tagert, Northern District.
“Load-securing should be a standard practice of Mississippi motorists,” said Melinda McGrath, P.E., MDOT Executive Director. “Debris from unsecured loads not only becomes a road hazard for other motorists but it also contributes to 40 percent of roadside litter. It is also illegal.”
Motorists responsible for debris from unsecured loads could face fines up to $500 and up to six months in prison.
Mississippi motorists can help keep others safe and avoid legal troubles by:
- Tying down the load with rope, netting or straps.
- Tying large objects directly to the vehicle or trailer.
- Covering the entire load with a sturdy tarp.
- Not overloading the vehicle.
- Always double checking the load to make sure it is secure.
- Using safety chains when hauling trailers.
“Secure Your Load Day” is part of a nationwide effort of the Governors Highway Safety Association to raise awareness about the dangers of debris falling from vehicles. It was spearheaded by Robin Abel whose daughter was blinded by a piece of particle board that flew from the back of a moving trailer on Interstate 405 in Seattle, Wash.
“Secure your load as if everyone you love is driving in the car behind you,” Abel said.
To learn more about travel safety, visit GoMDOT.com/DriveSmartMS, download the MDOT Traffic mobile app and follow @MississippiDOT on social media channels like Facebook and Twitter.
Proclamation – HERE
Secure Your Load Infographic – HERE
