Overloading vehicles not only damages road infrastructure but also significantly increases the risk of traffic accidents. According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, this warning was issued by the Main State Traffic Police Department (MSTPD) in an appeal to drivers.
The department reported that during recent enforcement measures, officers inspected a "Shacman" heavy-duty truck with the license plate 99-GU-473 using electronic scales. The inspection revealed that the vehicle, which has a maximum permissible weight of 32 tons, was actually carrying a load of 66 tons—more than double the legal limit.
The MSTPD emphasized that such violations severely compromise the safe operation of the vehicle, increase the probability of traffic accidents, and cause premature deterioration of road surfaces. Generally, overloading leads to longer braking distances, reduced maneuverability, and excessive strain on tires, braking systems, and suspension components. This creates a high risk of loss of control, mechanical failure, and severe road accidents.
Furthermore, the operation of overloaded heavy-duty vehicles causes significant damage to road surfaces, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure, drastically reducing their service life. The MSTPD has called on legal entities, individuals involved in cargo transportation, and drivers to strictly adhere to established weight regulations and avoid operating overloaded vehicles.
In Azerbaijan, the regulation of heavy-duty transport is a critical component of the national road safety strategy. The government continuously invests in modernizing road infrastructure, and authorities enforce strict weight limits to protect these investments and ensure public safety on the country's expanding highway network.