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Vehicle Loading
Roof racks, towing, weight limits, securing loads and passenger responsibility.
Video lesson
Slideshow
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Slide 1
Keeping Your Car Stable
Avoid Overloading
An overloaded vehicle can seriously affect:
- Steering.
- Braking.
- Handling.
If Carrying or Towing a Heavy Load
You may need to:
- Increase tyre pressures (follow the vehicle handbook).
- Adjust headlight aim.
Load Safely
- Distribute weight evenly.
- Secure the load so it cannot move.
- Ensure nothing blocks your view.
- Ensure nothing sticks out dangerously.
Reference
HC r98
What it means
How to carry passengers and loads safely — including roof racks, towing, and securing items.
Why it matters
Badly loaded vehicles can become unstable, hit other road users, or break the law. The driver is responsible.
Common mistakes
- Stacking the boot so high you can't see out the back window.
- Towing a trailer that's too heavy for the car or licence category.
- Letting children sit without the correct seat or restraint.
Exam tips
- The driver is legally responsible for making sure all passengers under 14 wear a seatbelt or use the right child seat.
- Children under 12 or under 135 cm must use an appropriate child restraint.
- A roof load raises the centre of gravity — drive slower, brake earlier.
- If a trailer starts snaking, ease off the accelerator — don't brake hard.
Real driving examples
- Loading the car for a holiday — heavy items low and central, light items on top.
- Towing a caravan — check the noseweight, mirrors and tyre pressures before setting off.
Key facts to memorise
- Driver is responsible for under-14s wearing a seatbelt/child seat.
- Children under 12 or 135 cm must use an appropriate child restraint.
Test your knowledge
10 questions, instant feedback, scored to your dashboard.
Start Vehicle Loading quiz