Is it illegal to drive with the trunk open when carrying goods in a sedan?
2 Answers
Driving with the trunk open when carrying goods in a sedan is illegal because an open trunk may pose a risk of items falling out, potentially creating road hazards and endangering following vehicles. Typically, offenders will receive a warning and education. However, if the cargo involves significant hazardous materials, penalties may include fines and demerit points. No individual or organization shall engage in the following acts: 1. Unauthorized modification of a registered vehicle's structure: It is prohibited to assemble a vehicle or modify its registered structure, construction, or characteristics without authorization. 2. Alteration of vehicle model specifications: Changing the vehicle model, engine number, chassis number, or vehicle identification number is not allowed. 3. Forgery or use of counterfeit vehicle registration documents: It is forbidden to forge, alter, or use counterfeit or altered vehicle registration certificates, license plates, driving licenses, inspection stickers, or insurance marks. 4. Use of another vehicle's registration documents: Using another vehicle's registration certificate, license plate, driving license, inspection sticker, or insurance mark is prohibited.
Not being able to close the trunk when carrying cargo may indeed be illegal, primarily because it's unsafe. As an experienced driver with years behind the wheel, I've seen many similar situations where people transport goods with their trunks open. The cargo can easily shake and fall out, especially when turning or braking, posing a danger if items fly out and hit people or other vehicles. It can also obstruct the rearview mirror, making it hard to see the road conditions. Traffic regulations require that cargo be loaded securely and stably. For example, the Road Traffic Safety Law stipulates that cargo must not extend beyond the vehicle in a way that affects safety. Once, when helping a friend move, I couldn't close the trunk and used ropes to tie it down, but they loosened on the road and nearly caused an accident. A traffic officer told me this was illegal and could result in a 200-yuan fine. For safety's sake, it's better to rent a cargo van like Lalamove for peace of mind, rather than risking it to save a little time.
