UNSECURED LOADS & ROAD DEBRIS CAUSE SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES

How often have you traveled behind a truck, trailer or pick-up and witnessed an unsecured load dumping debris, large items, household items or even large pieces of furniture onto the roadway?  The U.S. Department of Transportation estimates that at 55 mph, an object weighing 20 pounds strikes with an impact of half a ton when it falls from a vehicle.

As indicated by the pictorial above, the AAA Foundation’s national study found that between 2011 and 2014, unsecured loads and road debris caused 200,000 crashes, 39,000 injuries and more than 500 deaths.  Motorists need to be aware of the consequences and dangers of hauling unsecured items.  No matter how fast your speed or how long (or short) your trip may be, all items in a load must be properly strapped down and securely anchored.  Even at slow to moderate speeds, heavy items can become loose during an abrupt stop or from other unanticipated road conditions.

Additionally, big rig truck tires often shed debris from badly worn or underinflated tires which is left on the highway.  On congested roadways, motorists have little time to react creating a recipe for disaster.  ITD crews consider it a top priority to clean up and alleviate debris thrown from big rigs to avoid crashes.

If you see an unsecured load or something in the roadway, call law enforcement to report it.  I.C. §49-613 provides that vehicles shall not be operated on public highways unless the vehicle’s load is secure to prevent it from becoming loose or detached or a hazard to others.  Subsection (5) of this statute specifically states:  “No person may operate on any public highway any vehicle with any load unless the load is secured and such covering is required thereon…is securely fastened to prevent the covering or load from becoming loose, detached or a hazard to other users of the highway.” 

Loose loads and debris cause catastrophic injuries and damages.  Secure your load in compliance with state law and immediately remove and/or report debris that is on the highway.  Yours and other’s safety depend upon it.

If you have suffered injuries in a debris-related crash, call the skilled personal injury lawyers at Racine Olson to discuss your claim at:  208-232-6101.

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