What to do if something falls off your vehicle: Your responsibilities and safety measures

Driving on New Zealand roads can occasionally lead to situations where items fall off your vehicle, trailer, or truck. It’s crucial to know how to handle these incidents responsibly while adhering to the legal requirements outlined in the New Zealand road code. In this blog post, we will discuss what steps to take if something falls off your vehicle, as well as your legal responsibilities in such situations. Remember, prioritising safety and compliance with the road code is paramount.

Common Things to Fall Off Cars Onto the Road

The most common things to fall off cars onto the road can vary, but here are some common examples:

1. Debris from construction materials: Loose items such as rocks, gravel, or dirt that may have been unintentionally left unsecured or fall off construction vehicles.
2. Luggage and personal belongings: Loose items on the roof rack, truck bed, or trailer, including suitcases, bags, boxes, or other personal belongings.
3. Loose or damaged vehicle parts: Parts such as hubcaps, side mirrors, or bumper covers that may become loose due to wear and tear or impact.
4. Plastic or paper bags: Lightweight bags that can easily blow away if not properly secured, especially when placed on the roof or in the bed of a pickup truck.
5. Animal remains: Unsecured hunting trophies or improperly loaded game that may accidentally fall off vehicles.
6. Rubbish or garbage: Loose items such as fast food containers, wrappers, or beverage cups that are not properly disposed of and can fall off cars.

It’s important for drivers to secure their loads properly and ensure that any loose items are adequately tied down or stored to prevent them from falling off the vehicle and becoming hazards on the road.

1. Prioritise Safety and Comply with the Road Code:

In New Zealand, the road code mandates that all road users prioritise safety and take necessary actions to prevent hazards and accidents. If something falls off your vehicle, follow these steps while keeping legal requirements in mind.

2. Activate Hazard Lights and Pull Over Safely:

Immediately activate your hazard lights to warn other drivers of the potential hazard. Find a safe location to pull over, away from traffic, where you can park your vehicle without obstructing other road users.

3. Assess the Situation and Secure the Area:

Once you have safely pulled over, assess the situation. If it is safe and within your capabilities, retrieve the fallen item without endangering yourself or others. However, if it is not safe to retrieve the item or it requires running onto a busy road, follow the next step.

4. Report and Seek Professional Assistance:

In cases where the fallen item poses a risk or if there are other road hazards such as broken glass, oil spills, or chemical spills, you have a legal responsibility to take appropriate action. According to the New Zealand road code:

• If the substance or glass can be removed quickly and safely, the driver of the vehicle involved must immediately remove it or ensure it is removed.
• If the substance or glass cannot be removed quickly and safely, and there is a likelihood of harm being caused to the public or any person, the driver of the vehicle involved must warn the public or report the occurrence immediately to the nearest police station or to a member of the police. Contact the New Zealand Police non-emergency number *555 or 105 for assistance.
• If all the drivers of the vehicles involved are physically incapacitated and unable to remove the substance or glass or warn the public or report the occurrence, the person removing the vehicle from the scene must do those things as required.

5. Maintain a Secure Load:

To comply with the New Zealand road code, it is crucial to properly secure your load before driving. Use appropriate restraints, tie-downs, and fasteners suitable for the type and size of the load you are carrying. This helps prevent items from falling off and posing a risk to other road users.

Conclusion

Encountering a situation where something falls off your vehicle in New Zealand requires a responsible and compliant approach. By prioritising safety, complying with the New Zealand road code, activating hazard lights, pulling over safely, assessing the situation, and taking appropriate action as outlined by the road code, you can fulfil your legal responsibilities. Remember to secure your load properly before embarking on your journey to prevent items from falling off. Stay informed about local police contact numbers, such as *555 or 105 (non-emergency), and always call 111 in case of an emergency. Drive safely, be mindful of the New Zealand road code, and ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.