A van was stopped on the M4 by Wiltshire Road Policing Unit for being overweight. The van was found to be 12% overweight on the rear axle and 18% overweight on the gross.
The second axle had an extra weight of 270 kgs, an overload of 12% and a gross overweight of 660 kgs which is 18.8% overload. The driver was issued fines for the offences.
Excessive weight impairs the vehicle’s performance and increases the risk of a crash, especially when cornering or braking suddenly. Wiltshire Road Policing Unit warned that a high weight in any vehicle can cause an increased risk of dangerous driving, as well as causing more wear and tear on brakes and suspension systems.
When combined with other heavy items such as tools, equipment or passengers, it is easy to exceed the maximum allowable weight for any given vehicle or trailer. It is therefore essential that everyone takes responsibility for ensuring that their vehicles are not overloaded.
News Credits: Twitter @Wilts Specialist Ops
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