MDOT provides tips to transport Christmas trees

With the Christmas season here, MDOT wants to make sure everyone makes it home with their tree.

MDOT says this can be done by properly securing it to your vehicle and taking extra precaution.

MDOT’s Executive Director Brad White says any tree not properly secured can put the safety of you and any other driver at risk.

Trees that fall off a car can become airborne or create a hazard while lying on the road.

MDOT said a 2019 study revealed unsecured Christmas trees were responsible for over 200,000 crashes and 500 deaths.

Drivers could also face fines up to $500 and up to six months in prison.

MDOT’s David Kenney provided tips to avoid any of these situations from happening.

“Whether your tree is fresh cut from the farm or purchased from a vendor, you can safely transport it by taking the following steps:

• Use an appropriate vehicle, Christmas trees can be securely tied to roof racks or in the bed of a truck or inside an SUV.
• Tie down the tree with strong rope or nylon straps.
• Make sure the bottom of the trunk is pointed towards the front of the vehicle.
• Secure loose branches with netting, rope, or twine.
• Always double check the load to make sure it’s secure.
• And drive slowly.”

For more safety tips this holiday season, you can download the MDOT Traffic App from the Apple or Google Play Store.

You can also follow the Mississippi Department of Transportation on Facebook or Twitter.