The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is urging drivers to ensure their Christmas trees are securely fastened to their vehicles during the holiday season. MDOT Executive Director Brad White emphasized the importance of proper securing, stating, “Christmas trees that are not tied down properly to your vehicle put you and other motorists at risk of a serious accident.” He explained that unsecured trees could become airborne, posing dangers to other vehicles or creating road hazards.
A study by AAA in 2019 revealed that 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 highlighted that one in five buyers of real Christmas trees experienced a tree falling off their vehicle before reaching home. The problem also contributes significantly to roadside litter in Mississippi, costing the state over $3 million annually for removal. Drivers responsible for such littering face fines up to $500 and potential imprisonment for up to six months.
White further noted the increased risks on Mississippi roads during the holiday season due to heightened traffic and possible winter weather conditions. He urged drivers to contribute to road safety by properly securing their Christmas trees.
MDOT advises using appropriate vehicles for tree transport, such as those with roof racks or trucks with beds. Trees should be tied down with strong ropes or nylon straps at multiple points along the trunk. It’s recommended to bring personal straps as vendor-provided ones may not suffice. The tree’s trunk should face forward on the vehicle, and loose branches should be secured with netting or twine. Before driving off, double-checking the load’s security is essential. Additionally, driving at lower speeds helps prevent tie-down failures due to air resistance.
For more safety tips this holiday season, visit GoMDOT.com and follow @MississippiDOT on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Information from this article can be found here.
