.2411141215362.jpg)
'Tis the season for many drivers to strap Christmas trees to the top of vehicles. According to the Automobile Association of America (AAA), 44% of Americans who plan to buy a live Christmas tree won't take the steps necessary to get it home safely. More surprisingly, 16% of them have already had their Christmas tree fall off or out of their car during the trip home.
It’s illegal in Pennsylvania for items to fall off a vehicle while it’s on the road. Pennsylvania law mandates that any vehicle driven on a highway must be loaded in a way that prevents its load from dropping, shifting, leaking, or otherwise escaping. If any item or piece of a load falls from a vehicle and causes property damage or injury to another person, the driver faces a fine of up to $1,000. A violation that does not result in injury or property damage is punishable by a fine of up to $300.
If an item falls off of your vehicle and causes an accident, you may be held liable for any injuries that occur.
Here are some helpful tips to transport a tree safely:
- Always get your Christmas tree netted before leaving the lot. If you’re placing the tree on the roof, the trunk should be facing the front. This will help reduce wind damage to the branches.
- Select a tree that can either fit inside your trunk or cargo area or, if you have a roof rack, on top of your roof properly. Always make sure that you have enough rope or straps to wrap around the tree and secure it to the roof rack or to any cargo hooks.
- Double check your work; give the tree a good tug to make sure it's secure.
- Drive slowly and carefully. It’s best to try to avoid major highways or excessive speeds.
- Make sure that the windshield and side and rear-view mirrors are free from any branches or foliage that may obstruct your view.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, call the attorneys at Metzger Wickersham for a free consultation to make sure your rights are protected. (888) 286-2850