Don’t be a tosser! Cover your load

In NSW, securing your vehicle load is not only good practice but also a legal requirement vital for road safety.

Objects falling or blowing from vehicles can become dangerous projectiles, causing serious accidents or road hazards for other drivers and pedestrians. It also contributes to litter along the roadsides, made worse when vehicles run over these loose items.

When transporting a load, it is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that any loose materials are properly covered and secured.

How to secure a load correctly

Securing a load is simple and can be done using a purpose-built cover, cargo net, tarpaulin, and/or suitable restraints.

There are two main methods for securing a load. The first is tie-down restraint, which uses lashings to clamp the load to the vehicle.

The second is direct restraint, which can involve containing the load within the vehicle, blocking the load from moving with a rigid structure such as a rated headboard, or attaching the load directly to the vehicle.

For further advice, check out the Load Restraint Guide for light vehicles at ntc.gov.au/codes-and-guidelines/load-restraint-guide .

In NSW, it is an offence to drive with an unsecured or overhanging load. Uncovered loads incur an on-the-spot fine of $481 and three demerit points.

To keep roads safe and free of litter, visit www.newaste.org.au/coveryourload for more information.

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