As National Secure Your Load Day approaches on June 6, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is reminding all drivers to properly secure any items being transported. Unsecured loads are a serious safety risk on roadways and contribute significantly to crash-related injuries and fatalities.
Unsecured loads not only endanger you, but also other drivers and pedestrians. According to the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA), each year, about 730 people are killed and 17,000 more are injured because of objects in the road. Most of these crashes (81%) involve unsecured loads on passenger vehicles.
In Connecticut, from 2018 through May 2025, there have been 1,287 crashes due to objects in the road. Of these crashes, 128 people sustained an injury due to the crash.
“Every item not properly secured on a vehicle has the potential to become a deadly projectile,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “This is not just about compliance with the law, it’s about protecting lives. Taking a few moments to secure your load can prevent devastating crashes and keep Connecticut roads safer for everyone.”
National Secure Your Load Day was founded in 2004 by Robin Abel, a Washington resident whose daughter was severely injured by an unsecured load on the roadway. In 2010, she joined forces with Arizona resident Paul Reif, who’s son was tragically killed by an unsecured load. Working together, their advocacy helped build a grassroots movement that has grown to include participation from 46 states as of 2024.
NHTSA recommends the following tips to ensure you properly secure your cargo:
- Tie it 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.
- Always double-check your load to make sure it’s secure.
Every U.S. state has a law making it illegal for a driver to operate a non-commercial motor vehicle with an unsecured load. Violating these laws can carry state-specific penalties of up to $5,000.
For more information, visit nhtsa.gov/drive-safe-secure-your-load.