Every day, drivers across Washington share the road with an often-overlooked hazard: unsecured loads. According to WSDOT, these preventable risks contribute to more than 300 crashes each year—and even small, loose items can become dangerous at low speeds. Whether you’re hauling yard waste, moving furniture, or transporting equipment, make sure to take a few extra moments to properly secure your load.
Across the state, the Washington State Patrol will conduct emphasized patrols for unsecured loads throughout the month of June. Fines for unsecured loads can reach a maximum of $5,000 and potential jail time.
Safe roads start with simple actions. By securing what we carry, we not only protect ourselves but also prevent injuries, reduce roadside litter and create a safer driving environment for everyone. In fact, nearly 40% of roadside litter comes from unsecured loads or items blown from vehicles. Together, we can change that!
Before your next trip, take a moment to strap it down, cover it up, and double-check your cargo. A safer, cleaner community starts with all of us. Learn more about how to safely secure your load: SecureLoadsWA.org.
Preventing debris is the best way to keep our roads safe. Want to go a step further? Join the Clark County Adopt-A-Road program and be part of a team keeping our roads clean and beautiful. Learn more and get involved: https://clark.wa.gov/public-works/volunteer
