A major highway hazard that is both caused by and affects truckers is unsecured loads. Perhaps the most common danger occurs when portions of the improperly secured load go airborne and strike other vehicles as they cruise down the road. These incidents can readily result in fatalities and highway collisions.
Unsecured loads are also guaranteed violations of DOT rules. These omissions can result in fines, penalties or even worse, depending upon the damage that results from a trucker’s failure to secure their load.
Other Dangers from Unsecured Loads
Some hazards occur after the trip is done and the truck is ready to be unloaded. Failing to properly secure a load inside of a semitruck can cause major shifts in the cargo. This can result in injuries when the load comes tumbling out onto the lumpers waiting to unload a truck’s cargo.
Less dangerous mistakes can still cost truckers and trucking companies money if tarps aren’t secured atop loads of gravel. These small projectiles crack windshields and if they strike pedestrians or highway workers, can cause wounds that require stitches and tetanus shots.
Dropping Big Loads Leads to Fatalities
Failing to securely tarp down the freight you haul could allow it to slide off the flatbed trailer and onto the highway. When a car or truck behind you hits it, you could face catastrophic injuries or even death. Suddenly, the errant trucker responsible for the unsecured load finds themselves facing a wrongful death lawsuit or even criminal prosecution.
Hauling Livestock Presents Special Hazards
Any time a trucker hauls live cargo, the safety stakes are higher still. Despite measures taken to secure the stock for the trip, they can still move within the cargo hold. Should they become untethered, they can wreak havoc in the enclosed cargo area and potentially cause a bad accident.
Aim for Balance When Loading
If a trucker does not do their own loading or supervise the cargo-loading process, they should insist on a final visual check before heading out on their run. Unbalanced loads stacked too high alter the center of gravity for the trailer and often get tipped over.
Best Options for Securing Your Load
What you use to secure the load depends on the size and configuration of the cargo. Use load bars on pallets and straps to secure loads with irregular shapes. Other options include:
- Synthetic rope
- Blocks
- Grab hooks
- Tie downs
- Friction mats
- Tie-downs
Choosing the right tie-down method and equipment keeps everyone safer.
Keep Safety Foremost When Securing a Load
You never want to be liable for someone’s injuries and damages from an improperly secured load. Choose the safe way over the fastest option.
Source: str8dispatch.com
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