Containing Loose Materials

Sec. 725.021. CONTAINING LOOSE MATERIALS. (a) A vehicle subject to this chapter shall be equipped and maintained as required by this section to prevent loose material from escaping by blowing or spilling. (b) A vehicle bed carrying a load: (1) may not have a hole, crack, or other opening through which loose material can escape; and (2) shall be enclosed: (A) on both sides by side panels; (B) on the front by a panel or the vehicle cab; and (C) on the rear by a tailgate or panel. (c) Except as provided by Subsection (e), the load shall be covered and the covering firmly secured at the front and back, unless the load: (1) is completely enclosed by the load-carrying compartment; or (2) does not blow from or spill over the top of the load-carrying compartment. (d) The tailgate of the vehicle shall be securely closed to prevent spillage during transportation. (e) If the vehicle is a commercial motor vehicle transporting loose material, the load shall be covered and the covering firmly secured at the front and back or shall be completely enclosed by the load-carrying compartment. For purposes of this section, "commercial motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer used primarily in the business of transporting property. Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995. Amended by: Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 938 (H.B. 754), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2005. Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 800 (S.B. 387), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2007.