What is the lesson in the above story? Use the proper tool for the job. Do not be the guy with a huge ping pong table taped to the roof of your car. Being pulled over by a police officer is relatively minor compared to what could potentially happen. If the driver had been driving on a highway for example, at high speeds (e.g. 100mph), an object that large, not properly secured, could pose a major risk to surrounding motorists. Even without moving fast, objects coming loose from your vehicle are still likely to be dangerous for yourself as well as others nearby. Therefore, I encourage people to strap whatever object they are transporting with the right equipment.
Ratchet straps are one such device. There is quite a variety of ratchet straps, ranging in size (width and length) and types (e.g. with snap hooks, with coated ‘S’ hooks, with ‘J’ hooks, with ‘T’ hooks, axle tie down strap, cargo ratchet straps) for all sorts of different applications and how you intend to secure the strap (e.g. securing directly the axle of your vehicle). The various situations where you would use ratchet straps include transporting a trailer, a tractor, a snowmobile and boats. Of course quality or grade will vary depending on the hardware store you approach.