Hauling cargo or taking rubbish to the transfer station? Make sure it’s properly secured and covered

Hauling rubbish to the transfer station sometime in the near future? Moving or helping someone change locations? These are everyday happenings, so chances are pretty likely.

Just make sure what you have in the back of the truck or on the trailer won’t go anywhere while in transit.

Hawai‘i Island police remind motorists that all cargo transported on public roadways must be properly secured and covered.

Loose items or unsecured items can easily blow out of open-bed trucks, trailers or roof racks that can become road hazards and contribute to litter and traffic collisions.

Police say the majority of roadside debris actually is not intentionally discarded — instead it falls or is blown out from vehicles.

Drivers are advised to take the following steps to ensure what they are hauling is secure:

• Tie down all cargo with rope or straps.
• Secure large objects directly to the vehicle or trailer.
• Cover the entire haul with a sturdy tarp or cargo netting; make sure it’s tightly fastened.
• Double-check to ensure that nothing can slide, fall or shift.
• Review your vehicle manuals to confirm your vehicle is not overloaded.

First-time violators can be fined between $250 and $500. A second violation within 1 year carries a fine between $500 and $750, and could result in suspension of vehicle registration and/or driver’s license for at least 5 working days.

Hawai‘i Police Department urges the public to comply with load-covering laws.

Officers will continue enforcement to help keep roadways safe and free of debris for all motorists.