HAULING CARGO AND VEHICLE HANDLING
When using your vehicle to haul
cargo, make sure it is properly
loaded to help ensure safe handling.
Cargo should be evenly distributed
over the floor of the cargo area,
with the heaviest cargo on the
bottom and ahead of the rear axle.
If you must haul cargo on the roof
of the vehicle, use extra caution
when driving. Cargo placed on the
roof will tend to make your vehicle
top heavy, causing it to lean more
on corners and creating a greater
possibility of vehicle roll over should
you lose control of the vehicle.
Loaded vehicles, with a higher
center of gravity, may handle
differently than unloaded vehicles.
Extra precautions, such as slower
speeds and increased stopping
distance, should be taken when
driving a heavily loaded vehicle.
Loading the vehicle improperly can deteriorate handling capability and
contribute to loss of vehicle control.
Once you have reached the weight capacity of the vehicle, do not add
more cargo, even if there is space available. Make sure you consult the
safety compliance certification label attached to your vehicle and the
“Owner’s Guide” for information on maximum safe vehicle weight limits.
Hauling Cargo and Vehicle Handling
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