By Jenni Davidson
Drivers are being warned not to overload their vehicles and make them a danger on the roads.
Sussex Police are on the lookout for drivers exceeding their safe loading limit.
Overloading a vehicle can make it difficult to steer, increase its stopping distance, raise fuel consumption and put extra strain on tyres, making them more likely to burst.
It also invalidates insurance cover so an insurer will not cover costs in the event of an accident.
Drivers and companies convicted of overloading their vehicle can be fined up to £15,000.
If the vehicle is involved in an accident they could be charged with other offences as well.
Sergeant Bryan McCartney, of East Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said: “Overloading a vehicle has big implications in respect of its handling, stability and overall safety.
“I would urge all drivers to be aware of the design limits of their vehicles, especially commercial vehicles that are used to carry loads.
“Remember that aggregate when wet can be almost twice the weight of dry.”
If you see a vehicle being driven dangerously, you can report it at www.operationcrackdown.co.uk.
