Pack your car safely

It was an unsecured laptop that most likely killed Heather Storey of Delta, British Columbia. When a tow truck hit her car last year, her laptop turned into a projectile, striking her in the head and neck.

According to the National Roads and Motorists' Association in Australia, if a driver brakes suddenly from about 30 mph, items in the backseat could hit with the force they'd have when falling from a two-story building. To avoid potential injury:

Take out the trash. Don't leave snack bags or soda cans to roll around or lodge under brake or gas pedals.

Use the trunk. Instead of putting groceries or luggage in the backseat of a car, store them in the trunk, where they won't become projectiles.

Position heavy items carefully. In an SUV or wagon, they should be as far forward in the cargo area as possible, on the floor, and toward the center of the vehicle.

Secure loose cargo. Box smaller items and strap down larger ones with the vehicle's cargo anchors if available. Keep items off the rear window shelf.

Keep a low profile. Make sure you can see out the back window.

Keep essentials near. Emergency kit, cell phone, and maps should be within reach.

Don't carry items on an SUV's roof. SUVs have a higher center of gravity than sedans. Loading the roof raises it further.

Keep pets secure. Use a secured crate or barrier that separates the rear cargo and passenger areas. Otherwise, a harness or restraint can serve as a pet's safety belt. Be sure it lets pets sit or lie down.

Don't overload. The capacity of small SUVs can range from less than 700 pounds to more than 1,100. If you pack three of your fishing buddies into a Honda Element (capacity 675 pounds), they'd better not catch anything. Load capacity is listed in the owner's manual.

Test your packing job. In a safe spot, drive slowly, then hit the brakes to see whether any cargo shifts.