Is tying stuff down to the top of your car legal? I do it all the time and was just curious?

Question

I've tied down Sofas, Mattresses, tables, etc?

I was just curious is this practice legal. Even if you have fully tied it down to the top of the car? I've even passed by police doing this and they don't pull me over? I live in maryland.

Answer 1

It is only illegal if it obstructs the view through the windows. For example: If you have a king size mattress that overhangs the back of the car and covers the rear window, that is a traffic violation.

Also, improperly securing items, that become road debris, will also cause you to get a ticket.

Answer 2

I would say that you are not doing anything illegal!!
The did put car top carriers on roofs for a reason ...

You may just want to watch the Height limit and how far it would extend off the back and sides - I think that is all you need to worry about.

Check with the law enforcement if you are concerned.. but so far so good.

Answer 3

i tried looking in the Annotated Code of Maryland and I havent seen anything thus far, except in the Transportation Article and heavy items weighting the car Title 22. but nothing. I probably think its illegal though

Answer 4

I would assume it is like alot of vehicular laws are developed. it is Legal as long as nothing occurs because of it, as soon as something happens this would be the X-factor making it your fault. So assuming you tie a mattress on and drive across town and nothing happens its ok, as soon as you are involved in any type of accident, there is some "rule" that will be involved that because of it made it your fault... car too wide, too tall, blind spot, whatever.

It is kinda like backing up in a car. You are fine as long as you don't hit anybody, as soon as you "back" into someone, almost no matter what they did it is your fault. Similar to rearending someone... your fault.