Following local speculation surrounding targeted police activity against unsecured loads, acting police sergeant and highway patrol officer Scott Beverley said police are taking a “common sense approach” to unsecured loads.
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In response to queries in the community regarding regulations against unsecured items, like handbags and wallets, Sgt Beverley said police are targeting drivers not complying with section 292 (a) of the Road Rule (2008), stating that a driver must not drive or tow a vehicle if the vehicle is carrying a load that is not properly secured to the vehicle.
“We take a common sense approach to this offence. Basically, if any vehicle has a load or is towing a trailer with a load, that load must be secured or covered so that none of the load could be thrown from the vehicle in the event of an accident or fall from the vehicle when in motion.” Sgt Beverley said.
Clearing local speculation on the matter, Sgt Beverley said local police are specifically targeting loads and trailers, with loose items inside a vehicle, such as handbags, not representing the spirit of the legislation.
As winter approaches, Sgt Beverly said wood gatherers are urged to firmly secure their loads with either a cargo net or trampoline and ropes, with local tradespeople urged to do the same in utes and trailers.
With the offense carrying a hefty $405 fine and three demerit point penalty per offence for drivers who do not comply with the regulation, Sgt Beverley said the legislation is designed to protect drivers and other motorists, including motorcycle riders, in the event of a sudden stop or accident.
Encouraging drivers to take the same common sense approach, Sgt Beverley said complying vehicles should reasonably be able to be turned upside down and have nothing fall out, with the legislation targeted at avoiding objects becoming projectiles in the event of a sudden stop or accident or falling loose while in motion.
