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Vehicle loading: what you need to know Carrying loads and passengers safely, without making the car unstable or illegal. Read the key points below, then take the short quiz to check it has stuck. Every point is grounded in the Highway Code .
Key points: vehicle loading The driver is responsible for the load, and overloading affects steering, braking and stability (rule 98). A heavy roof load raises the centre of gravity and adds drag, so remove a roof box when it is not in use (rule 98). If a trailer or caravan starts to snake, ease off the accelerator gently; do not brake hard or steer sharply. Lower national speed limits usually apply when towing, and you need more room to stop. Children under 1.35 metres must normally use a correct child car seat, and the driver is responsible for under-14s wearing seat belts (rules 99, 100). Secure every load so that nothing can move or fall onto the road. Now test yourself on vehicle loading 7 questions on this topic, with the answer and the cited rule shown the moment you choose. If you miss any, the points above are where to look.
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Each question shows the correct answer and the Highway Code rule the moment you choose.
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Learn another topic Alertness Alertness Observation, anticipation, concentration and avoiding distractions at the wheel. Learn this topic Attitude Attitude Following distances, courtesy, priority and how to behave around other road users. Learn this topic Safety and your vehicle Safety and your vehicle Vehicle condition, tyres, lights, fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Learn this topic Safety margins Safety margins Stopping distances, the two-second rule and driving in rain, ice and fog. Learn this topic Hazard awareness Hazard awareness Spotting developing hazards, plus the effects of alcohol, tiredness and medicines. Learn this topic Vulnerable road users Vulnerable road users Pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and the 2022 hierarchy of road users. Learn this topic Other types of vehicle Other types of vehicle Lorries, buses, motorcycles, trams and how to share the road with them safely. Learn this topic Vehicle handling Vehicle handling Control in different weather, road surfaces, gradients and at night. Learn this topic Motorway rules M Motorway rules Lane discipline, speed limits, the hard shoulder and smart-motorway signals. Learn this topic Rules of the road Rules of the road Speed limits, parking, junctions, roundabouts and right of way. Learn this topic Road and traffic signs Road and traffic signs Sign shapes and colours, road markings and what each one tells you to do. Learn this topic Documents Essential documents Licence, insurance, MOT, vehicle tax and what the law requires you to hold. Learn this topic Incidents, accidents and emergencies Incidents and emergencies What to do at the scene, first aid basics and breakdown procedure. Learn this topic Original revision notes and practice questions covering the same topics as the official DVSA theory test. Not the real exam questions, and not affiliated with or endorsed by the DVSA. Based on The Highway Code and Know Your Traffic Signs under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Always check the current Highway Code on gov.uk.