Packing the car is part of the excitement of a summer holiday, but how you load your vehicle can have a significant impact on safety. An overloaded or poorly packed car is harder to control, takes longer to stop and can turn loose items into dangerous projectiles during emergency braking.
Every vehicle has a maximum authorised weight, which includes passengers, luggage and accessories. Exceeding this limit can affect handling, braking performance and tyre wear, particularly on long journeys or mountain roads.
When loading the boot, place the heaviest items low down and as close to the rear seats as possible. Lighter bags can be stacked on top, but avoid placing heavy objects on the parcel shelf or leaving loose items in the passenger compartment.
If you’re using a roof box, remember it raises the vehicle’s centre of gravity and increases its overall height. Stay within the recommended weight limits and take extra care in crosswinds and when approaching height restrictions.
Before setting off, adjust tyre pressures if required for a fully loaded vehicle, maintain good visibility through the windows and keep essential items such as water, medication and important documents within easy reach.
A few extra minutes spent packing carefully can make your journey safer, more comfortable and far less stressful.
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