Dangers of an overloaded car include:

Dangers of an overloaded car include:

• Throwing off your centre of gravity and reducing the stability of the vehicle
• Increasing the vehicle’s starting and stopping times – burning more fuel over time
• Impairing the vehicle’s handling and increasing its stopping distance
• Overloading will cost you more money on refuelling and upkeep because the car is being pushed beyond its limits

• Whether you're taking a student to university, visiting a DIY store or going on a  road trip, fitting a lot of things into your car is challenging.

  This is also how overloading happens. Every car comes with very specific weight limits that should not be exceeded.

  Overloading is when you pack more weight into your car than it’s designed to carry. This causes strain on the tyres and can lead to problems such as tyre blowouts.

   

• Overloading your car affects:

  • The car's handling
  • Braking
  • The suspension system
  • Overall stability
  • Occupant safety

  An overloaded car is difficult to control, especially in an emergency. Things sliding around or tipping when you brake, or turn can be dangerous. Before packing for your next trip, consult your car’s

• Overloading a car with passengers

  If you must fold seats to carry a large or awkward load, leave passengers and collect them later rather than take a chance by carrying them unrestrained.

  Cars are designed to transport passengers safely in a set number – typically one for every seat in the car. Most cars can accommodate the driver and up to 4 passengers, with 1 person in the front and 3 in the back. However, larger cars may have additional seats in the back and can carry up to 7 passengers.

  Overloading a car with passengers can put everyone at risk and increase the chances of accidents and injuries.

  manual to find the maximum weight that it can safely hold.

Reference: AA Motoring : overloading your car