During a check in the Austrian Salzkammergut regionthe officers were astonished: three out of four trucks were overloaded – and all drivers were asked to pay. The problem of overloaded trucks is widespread throughout Europe and poses a considerable risk to all road users. The consequences range from an increased risk of accidents and damage to infrastructure to heavy fines for those responsible. Why is overloading so dangerous?
Overloaded trucks have an increased risk of accidents due to a longer braking distance, are less maneuverable and react more slowly to steering maneuvers. This increases the risk of rear-end collisions, rollovers and other serious accidents, especially when cornering or on wet roads
The heavy weight of overloaded trucks also leads to damage to the infrastructure. This leads to accelerated damage to road surfaces, bridges and tunnels. Cracks, ruts and other damage can further impair road safety and result in expensive repairs. This is why, for example, the bridge on the A42 between Essen and Bottrop was closed for months. In order to detect violations more quickly and prevent further breakdowns, a weighing and barrier system on the A42so that vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tons can be diverted beforehand. The system is practically self-financing: The cities of Essen and Bottrop have already collected over 800,000 euros in fines.
But the vehicles themselves also suffer damage: Overloading exposes the components of a truck to increased stress. Brakes, tires, axles and the entire vehicle structure can be damaged as a result, which leads to further dangers on the road and also increases the risk of breakdown.
What accidents can happen?
Due to the longer braking distance, overloaded trucks can hit other vehicles more easily, especially in traffic jams or during sudden braking maneuvers. On bends or at higher speeds, the high center of gravity of overloaded trucks can even lead to a rollover.
Overloading the tires also increases the risk of tire blowouts, which can lead to a sudden loss of control of the vehicle. Currently on everyone’s lips: overloaded trucks can damage bridges or even cause them to collapse, which can have devastating consequences for all road users.
What are the penalties for overloading?
If you are caught with an overloaded truck, you can expect to pay considerable fines. The amount of the fine depends on the amount of the overload and can amount to several thousand euros . In some cases, the driver may be banned from driving or the truck’s operating license may be revoked.
Weighing rather than pushing
To prevent overloading, it is essential to check the vehicle weight before the truck leaves the company premises, and this is mandatory in trade and production anyway. Calibrated truck scalesoffer a reliable solution for this. However, the weight of trucks should also always be checked in transportation and logistics, if necessary with mobile scalesas they are also used by authorities for monitoring purposes.
- Correctly loaded trucks contribute to greater road safety, as the risk of accidents is significantly reduced by avoiding overloading.
- The service life of roads, bridges and tunnels is extended.
- Damage to vehicles and infrastructure can be avoided.
- Companies can ensure that their vehicles comply with legal requirements.
- Fines and penalties or the immobilization of a truck are avoided.
Conclusion
Overloaded trucks pose a serious risk to all road users. This danger can be effectively minimized through the consistent use of calibrated truck scales and compliance with legal regulations.
ESSMANN HE-TS mobile truck scales in use
