The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is urging drivers to ensure their Christmas trees are securely fastened to their vehicles during the holiday season. According to MDOT Executive Director Brad White, improperly secured trees can pose significant risks. “Christmas trees that are not tied down properly to your vehicle put you and other motorists at risk of a serious accident,” White said. He warned that unsecured trees could become airborne, potentially striking other vehicles or landing on the road, creating hazards.
A study by AAA in 2019 revealed that road debris from unsecured loads caused over 200,000 crashes, resulting in 19,000 injuries and more than 500 deaths over four years. Additionally, another study indicated that one in five real Christmas tree buyers experienced a tree falling off their vehicle before reaching home.
Beyond safety concerns, debris from unsecured loads contributes significantly to roadside litter, costing Mississippi over $3 million annually for removal. Drivers responsible for such littering may face fines up to $500 and possible imprisonment for up to six months.
White emphasized the importance of safety during the festive period: “The holiday season is a special time where we gather with our family and friends. Mississippi roadways are already more dangerous this time of year with increased traffic and potential winter weather conditions.”
To safely transport Christmas trees, MDOT advises using an appropriate vehicle where trees can be tied securely on roof racks or placed inside a truck bed or SUV. Strong ropes or nylon straps should be used at multiple points along the trunk. Drivers should also secure loose branches with netting or twine and double-check the load before departure. Driving slowly is recommended as higher speeds increase air resistance which might cause tie-downs to fail.
For additional travel safety tips this holiday season, visit GoMDOT.com and follow @MississippiDOT on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Information from this article can be found here.
