Does Holding a Baby Count as Overloading?
2 Answers
Holding a baby does count as overloading. The number of passengers in a vehicle must comply with the maximum capacity indicated on the vehicle's registration certificate. Overloading is solely determined by the number of passengers and has no relation to their height, weight, or age. As long as the actual number of passengers exceeds the registered capacity, it is considered overloading—even if it's just a baby held in someone's arms who doesn't occupy a seat. In the event of an emergency on the highway, even a baby held in one's arms may not be fully protected and could be thrown forward due to the immense impact. The strength of an adult's arms alone is insufficient to hold onto the baby securely.
As someone who frequently helps friends with car-related matters, I must say holding an infant definitely counts as overloading. Traffic regulations clearly state that the vehicle's designated passenger capacity includes all occupants, regardless of age. Even though infants are small, they must occupy one seat. Overloading not only results in fines and penalty points but, more importantly, poses significant safety hazards. Holding an infant in your arms could lead to the child being thrown forward or seriously injured in case of sudden braking or a collision—I've personally witnessed such accidents. The correct approach is to securely fasten the child in a safety seat to ensure their protection. Don't cut corners and invite big trouble—road safety should always come first. Overloading also affects the vehicle's braking and handling, increasing the risk of accidents. Remember, following the rules is the only way to drive with peace of mind.
