Law requires loaded trucks in city to be secured, covered

Special Logo

ALBANY ––  The City of Albany requests citizens’ cooperation in ensuring that all trucks and trailers operated by all companies, subcontractors, suppliers and haulers have loads properly secured and covered before traveling on city streets and other public roadways.

Loose materials, including soil, sand, gravel, rock, demolition debris, vegetation, construction waste, and similar materials must be secured and covered with a tarp or other effective covering, as necessary, to prevent them from blowing, falling, leaking, or otherwise escaping from the vehicle.

Georgia law requires vehicles traveling on public roads to be loaded or covered so that the load does not drop, escape, or shift in a manner that creates a safety hazard or deposits litter. (See O.C.G.A. §40-6-248.1.)

Individuals or companies transporting loaded vehicles or trailers should ensure that drivers inspect each load before leaving the job site, loading area, or staging location and that all tarps, tailgates, and other load-securement devices are properly fastened.

City officials say adherence to the law helps to maintain safe, clean streets and rights-of-way throughout Albany. Continued failure to properly secure or cover loads may result in appropriate enforcement action and may be addressed under applicable city contracts, permits or other requirements.