As of: January 31, 2024, 6:00 a.m
By: Sebastian Oppenheimer
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As a rule, the purchase fits in the trunk.
But sometimes there is simply not enough space in the interior.
At what excess length do you need the “red flag”?
Broken windshield wipers, dilapidated brakes, worn tires: If cars are not properly cared for and maintained, they quickly become a danger to the occupants - and of course to other road users.
However, most drivers generally make sure that these basic things are in acceptable condition.
If not, there will be problems with the main inspection.
However, one thing is often neglected in everyday life: securing loads.
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Proper load securing prevents the risk of injury from flying objects
Most drivers probably know how transported goods should be stowed in the vehicle - actually.
But in everyday life, time is often short and people don't take it too seriously.
“That’s fine now,” many people say to themselves – and in doing so, they underestimate the enormous risk of injury.
There are elementary rules that you should follow to prevent poorly secured objects in the vehicle from becoming dangerous projectiles when you brake hard.
You should definitely pay attention to the following:
Pay attention to weight distribution: Always sort heavy objects as low as possible.
Arrange transported goods with as few gaps as possible so that nothing can slip
Ideally, secure the cargo with load securing nets or tension straps
If there is a luggage net, you should also use it.
How far cargo can protrude from a car
However, if, for example, you have to visit the furniture store or need to transport the Christmas tree, there may not be enough space in the vehicle - then the trunk lid may have to remain open on the journey home.
But how far can something actually stick out of the trunk?
This is regulated in the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) in §22:
Over a distance of up to 100 kilometers, the load can protrude up to three meters from the back.
On longer routes, a maximum excess length of 1.50 meters is permitted.
The trunk doesn't always close after you've bought furniture.
But when is the “red flag” needed?
(Symbolic image) © Shotshop/Imago
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A “red flag” is mandatory if the flag is one meter extra long – these alternatives are available
As soon as the load protrudes more than one meter beyond the car's reflectors, it must be marked with the “red flag”.
However, it doesn't necessarily have to be a piece of fabric as a "warning notice", the following is possible according to the StVO:
a bright red sign hanging across the roadway and measuring at least 30 x 30 centimeters
a bright red, vertically mounted cylindrical body with a diameter of at least 35 centimeters and a height of 30 centimeters
a bright red flag, separated by a crossbar, measuring at least 30 x 30 centimeters
No matter which variant you choose: the “safety device” may be installed a maximum of 1.5 meters above the road.
In the dark or otherwise poor visibility conditions, a light with red light must also be installed, as well as a red reflector - at a maximum height of 90 centimeters.