If Martin suspects his vehicle is overloaded, what action should he take?

Explanation: • Nothing as it would be the loader who is at fault: No, the driver could be prosecuted for using an overloaded vehicle on the public road and it is he who would be in danger as a result of an overloaded vehicle.
• Ask in the office if it is OK to carry on: No, the office may not know the relevant information and. in any event, the vehicle and load are ultimately, the drivers responsibility.
• Check the weight of the load against the paperwork and the Ministry Plate: No. delivery notes and other paperwork may not always be accurate and in any case, this procedure would not identify any axle overload. Also, the Ministry Plate does not provide the Tare weight of the vehicle.
• Drive to the nearest weigh bridge to get an accurate weight of vehicle and axles: Yes, a driver is allowed to drive to the nearest weigh bridge to ascertain an accurate weight of his vehicle.

Category: CPC Case Studies: Vehicle Loading Unloading and Security