Georgia Commercial Driver License Practice Test

Which of the following signifies axles that are close together?

1. Stronger load support

2. Increased maximum weight limit

3. Lower maximum weight limit

4. Improved fuel efficiency

The correct answer is: Lower maximum weight limit

The correct answer highlights the relationship between closely spaced axles and maximum weight limits on commercial vehicles. When axles are positioned close together, they generally reduce the amount of weight that can be legally carried by the vehicle. This is primarily due to the design regulations that govern how weight is distributed across the axles. In commercial driving, maintaining proper weight distributions is crucial for both safety and compliance with transportation regulations. Close axle spacing typically results in a lower gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), which can adversely affect stability and control. Therefore, vehicles with closely spaced axles often have a lower maximum weight limit compared to those with axles spaced farther apart, allowing for a higher weight capacity per axle. Other options, such as stronger load support or increased maximum weight limit, are misleading in this context since they would apply to configurations where axles are spaced farther apart, enabling better weight distribution and support. Improved fuel efficiency does not directly relate to the spacing of axles; rather, it can be influenced by other factors like engine performance and aerodynamics. Thus, recognizing that closely spaced axles lead to a lower maximum weight limit is essential for understanding vehicle operation and compliance in the commercial driving landscape.