What is the effect of overloading a truck?

Prepare for the Ontario Trucking Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready to earn your license!

Overloading a truck has a significant impact on safety and control. When a truck is loaded beyond its designed weight limits, it compromises the vehicle's handling characteristics. This can lead to longer stopping distances, increased wear on brakes and tires, and a higher likelihood of rollovers, especially when turning or navigating curves.

Additionally, overloading can impair the effectiveness of the suspension system, resulting in poor ride quality and decreased stability, which can make it difficult for the driver to maintain control of the vehicle. As the weight of the load increases, the driver may find that the truck becomes more sluggish to respond to steering inputs, further endangering both the driver and other road users.

It is important to understand that while some may think that overloading could improve certain aspects like fuel efficiency or engine performance, the reality is that the negative consequences far outweigh any perceived benefits. Safe loading practices are essential for maintaining optimal truck performance and ensuring road safety.

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