When planning to travel long distances, it seems to have become a habit for us to bring many items that will be needed. As a result, the car will have an excess load beyond the recommended capacity.

Of course, this will reduce safety while driving. Consequently, the risk of accidents also increases due to decreased stability and maneuverability, which will reduce the car's anticipation and response when facing sudden situations.

Risks of Driving with Heavy Loads

Here are the risks that can arise from driving a car with a heavy load:

1. Getting Ticketed by the Police

In Indonesia, cars with heavy loads are sure to be penalized by the police. Because it violates Article 307 in conjunction with Article 169 paragraph 1, which explains that the load does not comply with applicable regulations, you could be fined up to Rp 500,000.

2. Your Fuel Consumption is High

Cars carrying heavy loads will consume more fuel. The amount of items in the car makes it heavier, and the gas pedal must be pressed deeper. As a result, the energy required is greater, causing the car's fuel to run out more quickly. 

3. Danger of Tire Blowouts

The negative effects of excessive car loads will also extend to the tires. Although tires can bear heavy loads, if used for long distances, they can blow out and pose a threat to passenger safety.

4. Will Cause Danger When Turning

The car feels unstable when going around corners due to being fully loaded. Especially if we place items on the roof of the car, it will further reduce the car's maneuverability. The risk of accidents is very high, considering the winding roads full of inclines and cliffs on both sides of the road. 

5. Slow Acceleration

The heavier the load on the car, the more the engine is burdened, and as a result, acceleration decreases. Therefore, be patient and be prepared for the car to be overtaken by others.

6. Makes Driving Uncomfortable

Lastly, there is the suspension component. Do not let excess load torture the suspension. If the car hits a pothole, the suspension will struggle to bounce back due to the excess load, thus reducing driving comfort. In the worst case, the suspension can break because of this.