01/07/2025
Accidents caused by improper load securing – an underestimated risk on our roads
Load securing plays a crucial role in road traffic – especially in heavy goods transport . Yet, this issue is often underestimated, which regularly leads to accidents caused by inadequate load securing . Unsecured or improperly secured cargo can pose a fatal hazard during sudden braking, cornering, or evasive maneuvers . This article examines the causes, legal framework, and preventative measures to avoid accidents – supported by current statistics on accidents caused by load securing .
What does load securing mean?
Load securing refers to all measures necessary to prevent cargo from slipping, tipping, or falling from the vehicle during travel . This applies to both freight transport by truck and smaller transport vehicles .
Objectives of load securing
- Protection of the driver, the load and other road users
- Compliance with legal regulations (e.g. § 22 and § 23 StVO)
- Prevention of property damage and personal injury
Common causes of accidents due to inadequate or incorrect load securing
The reasons for accidents caused by incorrect load securing are manifold, but are often due to human error or ignorance:
- Missing or insufficient lashing equipment
- Improper load distribution
- Use of unsuitable vehicles for certain transport goods
- Time pressure in everyday logistics
A truck accident can have fatal consequences – for the driver, following vehicles and even innocent bystanders.
Accidents caused by inadequate load securing – statistics
The statistics on accidents caused by load securing show how explosive the issue is:
- According to the German Road Safety Council (DVR), around 20–25% of truck accidents each year are due to inadequate or incorrect load securing.
- About one in four accidents involving inadequate load securing results in serious personal injuries.
- Police and Federal Office of Public Health (BAG) inspections revealed that approximately 70% of the trucks inspected had deficiencies in load securing.
These figures make it clear: load securing accidents are not a marginal phenomenon, but a systemic problem in the transport sector .
Consequences and legal consequences
An accident due to inadequate load securing usually results in legal consequences:
- Fines for drivers and entrepreneurs
- Points in Flensburg
- In extreme cases: prison sentences for personal injuries
- Insurance companies can refuse to settle
Prevention: How to avoid load securing accidents
Training & Awareness
Regular training on load securing and accident prevention is essential – both for drivers and logistics staff.
Use of suitable tools
This includes:
- Anti-slip mats
- Tensioning straps with sufficient pre-tensioning force
- Load securing nets
- Form-fitting loading
- Other products from our range
Technological support
Digital sensors and monitoring systems help to monitor the load during the journey and detect hazards at an early stage .
Conclusion on inadequate load securing
Accidents caused by inadequate load securing are preventable – with the necessary knowledge, the right equipment, and a clear culture of responsibility within companies. Accident statistics in the area of load securing clearly demonstrate that there is enormous potential for improvement . Preventive measures not only protect themselves but also make an active contribution to road safety on our roads.
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10-point checklist for load securing
Download our free PDF checklist with 10 important points for load securing .
Download load securing checklist