Washington State Patrol is partnering with the state departments of Ecology and Transportation for a 28-day statewide “secure load” emphasis patrol, aimed at increasing road safety and litter prevention.
The initiative begins Monday, according to a WSP release. The extra patrols will end May 12, but drivers “with unsecured loads should always anticipate the attention of troopers, as well as environmental and road officials working together to” keep roads safe, WSP said.
Littering is punishable in Washington by fines ranging from $50 to $5,000.
The largest fines are issued for “lit debris,” primarily cigarettes, and objects large enough to cause crashes. Failing to secure a load can result in a citation ranging from a $228 fine to criminal charges if the items cause property damage or injuries, according to WSP.
