Utah DPS Highlights Dangers Of Unsecured Loads, Urges Drivers to “Tie It Down”

Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) responds to over 70 road debris calls daily

MEDIA AVAILABILITY (June 5th, 2025): As National Secure Your Load Day approaches on June 6th, the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) is issuing a critical reminder to all drivers: properly securing your load is not just a suggestion, it’s a responsibility that saves lives. Unsecured loads contribute to hazardous road debris, resulting in numerous preventable crashes and traffic disruptions throughout the state.

UHP troopers across Utah respond to an average of more than 70 calls per day involving road debris, totaling over 25,000 calls annually. In 2025 alone, unsecured loads have been responsible for over 250 crashes statewide. These incidents pose a significant hazard, as items falling from vehicles can collide with other cars or pedestrians, causing serious injuries or fatalities. Such road hazards are often difficult for other drivers to avoid safely.

When debris obstructs roadways, responders frequently need to halt interstate traffic completely to safely clear the hazard, causing significant delays and frustration for motorists.  Drivers with unsecured loads can face fines ranging from $200 to $1000, or penalties of up to a Class A Misdemeanor. 

To emphasize the importance of this issue, the media are invited to meet officials from the Utah Department of Public Safety’s Highway Safety Office and Highway Patrol for interviews and demonstrations.
 

WHEN:         Friday, June 6, 2025, 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.

WHERE:      Calvin Rampton Complex, DLD loading dock

                     4499 S 2700 W, Taylorsville, UT 84129

WHO:           Jason Mettmann, DPS – Highway Safety Office
                     Trooper Justin O’Driscoll – Utah Highway Patrol

VISUALS: (Link to Media Kit)

• Video footage of Troopers conducting a slowdown/traffic break maneuver to clear debris from the roadway.
• A pickup truck demonstrating a properly secured load using straps and a net.
• Crash Fact Sheet detailing statistics related to unsecured loads.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Jason Mettmann, Communications Manager
Highway Safety Office, Utah Dept. of Public Safety
801.664.7899
[email protected]