What risk does a high center of gravity pose when taking curves in a CMV?

• A. Engine overheating
• B. Loss of control or rollover
• C. Brake fade
• D. Tire wear

Answer: (B)

A high center of gravity makes a CMV more unstable in turns. When a curve is taken, the centrifugal force pushes the vehicle outward, and the weight shifts toward the outside of the turn. If the vehicle sits tall, this weight transfer more easily lifts the inner wheels and can cause the trailer or tractor to tilt or roll over, or the driver to lose control. That’s why the main risk in curves is loss of control or rollover for tall, top-heavy CMVs.

Other issues like engine overheating, brake fade, or tire wear aren’t the primary hazards caused by a high center of gravity in curves. They can occur for different reasons (engine load, braking duration, or general wear), but the most direct consequence of a tall height during cornering is instability leading to rollover or loss of control.