Many traffic accidents are caused by unsecured or inadequately secured loads. Seven basic rules should be observed for securing loads:
- Suitable vehicles should always be used.
- The maximum permissible gross vehicle weight and axle load should not be exceeded, loads falling short of the minimum axle load should be avoided.
- The point of gravity of the load should be on the longitudinal median plane of the vehicle and be located as low as possible.
- The load has to be stowed and secured in a way that prevents it from moving, shifting, rolling or falling off.
- Suitable safeguarding devices, such as wedges, studs, nets or lashing straps, etc. should be used.
- The transported goods must not be damaged through loading or securing.
- The driving speed has to be adjusted to the load.