Drivers have been warned that they face a £300 fine for overloading their vehicles. Penalty points could also be given as a result of the offence which could cause accidents, experts have said.
Under Section 41B of the Road Traffic Act 1988, it’s a serious offence to drive an overloaded vehicle which exceeds weight restrictions and requirements. Motorists found to be breaking the law could see fines of up to £300 as well as penalty points on their licence – depending on the amount overloaded.
Drivers may also face serious consequences if an overloaded vehicle has put other road users at risk of danger or injury. Road users are advised to spread loads evenly to keep their vehicle steady, making sure nothing can slide too far out of position and using safety equipment like rope hooks to keep goods tightly secure.
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Van drivers should also ensure the vehicle they’re using is a suitable choice, and plan the loading process to make sure all goods are distributed evenly to avoid the van from tipping to one side.
Carrying out a risk assessment before setting off and walking around the van to ensure everything is strapped in is also essential to prevent overloading incidents. An overloaded vehicle can become difficult to steer and control, posing a significant safety risk to other drivers.
If a load begins to shift, the official advice is to slow down and look for a place to pull over so van drivers can adjust their items safely. Tim Alcock, motoring expert at Lease Van, said: “Driving an overloaded vehicle is a serious offence, and the restrictions are something all van drivers need to be aware of. Not only will it cost fines of up to £300 and points on the licence but it potentially puts other drivers at risk of harm or injury due to carelessness when loading up a vehicle.
“Before setting off on the road, we strongly encourage all van owners to double-check that items are securely fastened into position and to invest rope hooks for extra reassurance. If you do find yourself on the road with a shifting load, first check your mirrors and begin to slow down.
“Then when it’s safe to do so, pull over into a suitable area where you can readjust the equipment and tightly secure it to prevent any moving loads. All van drivers must take extra care and precautionary measures to ensure they aren’t breaking the law, prevent causing harm to other road users, and to avoid serious penalty charges.”
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