Dimensions, Masses and Loads
The limits you must know
Vehicle dimensions and loads are governed by maximum permitted width, height, length and axle mass. Standard maxima in the region are around 2.55 m width for general vehicles, 4 m height, and axle loads near 10–11.5 tonnes depending on configuration; combination length is capped near 16.5–18.75 m. Learn the principle rather than only the digits: the limits protect bridges, tunnels and other road users, and any load projecting beyond them needs marking and often a permit.
Securing and marking loads
A load must be secured so it cannot shift, fall, or trail dangerously, and it must not obscure lights, plates or the driver's view. Loads projecting more than one metre behind the vehicle must be marked - typically with a red flag or board by day. At night, projecting loads need a red light or reflector at the rear and a white light or reflector at the front if they project forward. A frequent exam trap is the word "permitted": exceeding a limit is not automatically allowed by adding a marker; an oversized or heavy load usually requires an escort or special permit.
Axle and roof loads
Roof load is limited by the manufacturer, not by law alone - check the handbook. Overloading an axle reduces steering grip and braking efficiency and damages the road; questions may ask which axle is at risk when a load is placed far behind the rear axle, which is the rear axle, worsened by leverage.
Worked example
A ladder projects 1.4 m behind a car. Because it exceeds one metre, it must be marked with a red flag or board in daylight, and at night with a red light or reflector; the boot must still close and the plate and lights must stay visible.
Rule of thumb
Measure the overhang; over one metre means mark it, and over the legal maximum means a permit and possibly an escort.