David is carrying some meat carcasses from Lyon to Paris. He notices the trailer swinging from side to side as he is entering and leaving roundabouts. What could cause this?

Explanation: • The front suspension is faulty: No, this is unlikely to cause this effect.
• He is driving too close to the vehicle in front: No, this is unlikely to cause this effect.
• The 5th wheel needs adjusting: No.
• The carcasses are swinging inside the semi-trailer because he is driving too fast: Yes, if he is driving too fast, especially around bends, then this would cause the carcasses to sway and their momentum can cause the trailer to swing or rock in sympathy.

Category: CPC Case Studies: Risk Factors