• The state of Ohio has express laws that pertain to restraining loads carried by dump trucks or other commercial vehicles. It is in the best interest of the public for these trucks not to lose portions of their loads, which may create dangerous obstructions for following, or passing, vehicles. The state puts the onus on the dump truck drivers and operators to ensure their loads are properly harnessed.
  
  

Securing Loads on Vehicles

• Under Section 4513.31 of the Ohio Revised Code, all vehicles driving on the road must secure its load from "dropping, sifting, leaking, or otherwise escaping therefrom." The law remains broad, but dump truck operators would need to cover their load and/or strap it down in order to keep it from bouncing out of the bed.
  
  

Penalties

• The first offense results in a minor misdemeanor. A second offense within one calendar of the first results in a fourth-degree misdemeanor. Each following offense within one year of the first results in a third-degree misdemeanor.
  
  

Red Light or Flag Requirement

• Should the dump truck's load extend 4 or more feet beyond the rear bumper, a red flag/cloth of no less than 16 square inches must be affixed to the extreme rear of the load. If the dump truck operates from sunset to sunrise with an applicable load, the operator must attach a red light or lantern visible at least 500 feet to the rear and sides. Failure to do so results in a minor misdemeanor.