Vehicle Loading

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Loading a vehicle correctly is essential for safety and efficiency. Whether carrying passengers, animals, luggage, or towing a trailer, proper loading helps maintain stability and control.

1. Overloading and Adjustments

  1. Overloading negatively affects steering and braking.
  2. Adjustments may be needed when carrying or towing a heavy load:
    1. Tyre Pressure: Increase air pressure in tyres as per the vehicle handbook.
    2. Headlights: Adjust aim to compensate for extra weight.

2. Safe Loading Practices

  1. Distribute weight evenly to maintain stability.
  2. Secure loads to prevent movement during cornering or braking.
  3. Ensure loads do not obstruct the driver’s view or protrude dangerously.

3. Carrying a Load on a Roof Rack

  1. Increases wind resistance and affects fuel efficiency.
  2. May reduce vehicle stability; loads should be covered to protect from weather.

4. Carrying Passengers

  1. All passengers MUST wear seat belts if fitted.
  2. The driver is responsible for ensuring children under 14 wear appropriate restraints:
    • Baby carrier for infants.
    • Child seat for toddlers.
  3. Never allow passengers to travel inside a towed caravan.

5. Transporting Animals

  1. Animals should be restrained to prevent distractions and maintain safety.
  2. Dogs can travel in special cages, behind a dog guard, or secured with a harness.
  3. Other animals should be placed in secured pet carriers.

6. Towing a Trailer or Caravan

  1. Strong winds or large vehicles can cause a trailer to snake (sway side to side). If this happens, ease off the accelerator without braking harshly or steering sharply.
  2. Training courses for safe towing are available through organizations like:
    1. National Register of LGV Instructors
    2. Safe Towing Scheme
    3. Skills for Logistics
  3. Speed Limits for Towing Vehicles:
    1. 60 mph (96 km/h) on dual carriageways and motorways.
    2. 50 mph (80 km/h) on single carriageways.
    3. Vehicles towing trailers must not use the right-hand lane of a three-lane motorway.

7. Fuel Consumption Considerations

  1. Extra weight increases fuel consumption.
  2. Roof racks and roof boxes create additional wind resistance and drag.
  3. Remove roof racks/boxes when not in use to improve fuel efficiency.