You are driving in a pair with a load. What should be noted when performing an emergency stop?

When performing an emergency stop while driving a vehicle with a load, it is important to understand that additional factors come into play compared to driving an unloaded vehicle.

Firstly, you will need to apply more braking force because the added weight increases the stopping distance. The heavier the load, the longer it may take for the vehicle to come to a complete halt, which means you must be prepared to exert greater pressure on the brakes.

Secondly, with a load, the rear-wheel brakes may operate more powerfully due to the shift in weight distribution. This can lead to an imbalance if not managed properly, which is why understanding how your vehicle reacts in these situations is critical to maintaining control during an emergency stop.

The combination of these two factors is key for safety and compliance with German traffic regulations, which emphasize the need for appropriate braking distances and vehicle control, especially when loaded. Understanding this helps prevent accidents by ensuring that drivers are equipped to handle emergency situations effectively.