Overloading a CMV affects performance in which of the following ways?

• A. Increases stopping distance, reduces acceleration, and can cause steering/control problems.
• B. Decreases acceleration but increases braking distance.
• C. Increases stopping distance, reduces acceleration, and can cause steering/control problems.
• D. Has no effect on vehicle handling.

Answer: (C)

Overloading a CMV increases its mass, which makes it harder to slow down and easier to surpass the vehicle’s braking capacity. That extra weight raises the energy that must be removed to stop, so stopping distance grows. It also means the engine has to work harder to move the heavier load, reducing acceleration. The heavier load presses more firmly on the tires, reducing the available grip and making steering feel heavier and less responsive; on top of that, a higher load can raise the center of gravity, increasing the potential for unstable handling. All of these factors together explain why overloading degrades braking, acceleration, and control, making the described effects the best summary of the impact.