Many French people go on vacation with an overly loaded car, here's what they really risk

What are the risks of motorists who take the road on vacation with a car that is too heavy??

It's the same every summer. Since humans like to have everything they need, many holidaymakers tend to take as much as possible with them when they go away for a few weeks in the sun. The result: the boot of their car is never big enough and things pile up in every available square inch, including on the back seat, the rear shelf and under the passengers' feet. Once all the luggage is piled up and the doors are closed, it's a done deal! At least that's what we think.

Because few French people pay attention to it, but it is forbidden to take the road with a vehicle that is too heavy. Besides, who knows the weight of their car? empty and its authorized total weight in charge (PTAC) ? This is however essential in order not to exceed the regulatory limit and to avoid a very serious unpleasant surprise in the event of a check by the police. If you are looking for it, this information appears on the vehicle registration certificate, the famous gray card, at the level of the marks F2 (PTAC) and G1 (empty weight).

© 123RF

Let's take the example of a couple with three children travelling in a Renault Espace, the ultimate family vehicle. The latest version of the large SUV, in its entry-level Techno trim in full hybrid, weighs 1622 kilos empty and its GVW is set at 2255 kilos. The difference between the two is 633 kilos (2255-1622). This is therefore the weight that can be added to the car without exceeding the authorized limit. It is important to keep in mind that the weight of the driver and passengers as well as that of any transport equipment (roof bars, bike racks, etc.) must be taken into account. And if ever the load exceeds the authorized weight – which is possible by stacking very heavy objects -, the bill can be very high.

Driving a vehicle whose weight exceeds the authorized weight is indeed severely punished by law. If the weight of your car exceeds the authorized weight by less than 5%, the fine is 135 euros. Between 5 and 20%, the amount is the same but the police can order the immobilization of the vehicle. Beyond by 20%, the fine is no longer 4th but 5th class, which increases the painful fine from 135 to 1,500 euros! Beyond the price to pay, keep in mind that driving an overloaded vehicle is dangerous. Braking, stability and handling are impaired, which greatly increases the risk of having an accident.