The safety campaign occurs on June 6
LONDON, Ky. (June 6, 2022) –The Kentucky State Police (KSP) will participate in the ‘Secure Your Load Day’ safety campaign on June 6 to prevent crashes, injuries, and deaths caused by unsecured vehicle loads.
In 2020, the United States had 637 fatal crashes related to unsecured loads. The crashes resulted in 715 deaths.
In Kentucky, the law states that no vehicle shall be operated on any public highway whose load is susceptible to shifting or spillage unless the load is covered with a device that is suitable for the prevention of spillage (KRS 189.150).
KSP Major Nathan Day, Division Director for the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Troop, says these deaths are preventable, and it is crucial motorists are take securing their loads seriously.
“After you secure your load, ask yourself, ‘Would I feel safe if I drove behind my vehicle?’,” said Major Day. “If you can’t answer with a yes, you need to take our tips to ensure you are traveling safely on our roadways.”
Motorists should follow these tips to secure the load in your vehicle or trailer:
- Tie your loads down with rope, netting, or straps.
- Tie large objects directly to your vehicle or trailer.
- Cover the entire load with a sturdy tarp or netting.
- Don’t overload your vehicle or trailer.
- Double-check your load to make sure it’s secure.
Motorists should ask themselves these questions before they start driving:
- Is there a chance of debris or cargo falling or blowing out of the vehicle?
- Is the load secured at the back, sides, and top?
- Is my load secured if I had to brake suddenly or hit a bump?
‘Secure Your Load Day’ was established by Robin Abel, a Northwest native who lost her daughter Maria in a vehicle accident in 2004. Maria was on her way from work when someone ahead of her had lost a piece of furniture. The 40 lb. board went through her windshield, hitting her in the face at 55 miles per hour.
“We have one and the same goal. To keep our families safe on the roadways, save lives, injuries, and reduce litter. Secure your load as if everyone you love is driving in the car behind you,” said Robin Abel.
If you witness an unsecured load or other traffic violations, contact your local KSP Post with the information.
To learn more about ‘Secure Your Load Day’ visit the safety campaign’s website.
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