Vehicle Weight

Emergency vehicles, regardless of type, make, model, or year built, all have some common characteristics. They are subject to severe use; have multiple drivers; are heavy; and many have a high center of gravity. These last two items, weight and the high center of gravity, may cause problems with regard to the vehicle’s handling characteristics. Too much weight or weight that is improperly distributed may cause steering and braking problems that could result in component failure. A high center of gravity, in addition to having an impact on steering and stopping the vehicle, plays heavily into the risk of vehicle rollover. Improper weight distribution or too much weight also influence the rollover potential.

Available Resources

• Conversion and Overweight Vehicle information Form