Properly secured cargo prevents hazards

The endless opportunities for seasonal recreation are evident, when traveling along Wisconsin’s roads, with trailers hauling snowmobiles, ice shacks, boats, campers and much more. To keep roads safe, always double check that cargo and trailers are secure, and that nothing can escape or become a hazard, to oneself or others.

The Wisconsin State Patrol’s March Law of the Month – Trailer and Load Securement – gives drivers simple, but essential, steps to properly secure trailers and loads before hitting the road.

“Drivers are responsible for making sure everything is secure and in good working condition,” said superintendent Tim Carnahan. “This is especially important, as more boats and trailers come out of storage in the spring. An extra safety check could prevent a serious crash.”

Debris on highways and unsecured cargo cause nearly 1,000 crashes every year, in Wisconsin. These crashes, and the injuries that result from the incidents, are preventable.

Failure to properly secure a trailer or a load of cargo can result in a $200 citation in Wisconsin. That penalty can increase, if someone is hurt.

When hauling a boat, camper or trailer, the driver is responsible for ensuring it is in good mechanical condition and is safely attached to the vehicle.

Before getting on the road, make sure of the following:

• Trailer tires, axles and lights are in proper working condition

• The ball and hitch coupling assembly are the same size, and latch securely

• Two safety chains of proper length and strength, are attached between the vehicle and the trailer (with enough slack to allow proper turning)

• To crisscross the safety chains creates a cradle that can catch the tongue of the trailer, should an unexpected disconnection occur Make sure that any items loaded into a trailer or truck bed are properly secured. Items such as coolers, chairs, lumber or fishing equipment, that bounce out of trailers or truck beds, can damage other vehicles or result in serious crashes, when drivers swerve to avoid debris.

To secure the load, tie it down with rope, netting or straps; tie large objects directly to a vehicle or trailer; cover the entire load with a sturdy tarp or netting; don’t overload the vehicle or trailer; and always double check to make sure the load is secured.