Is It Overloading for a Compact Car to Carry 5 Adults and 1 Child?

[LaAnderson]

Private 5-seater cars carrying an additional child are considered overloading. Below are the relevant details: 1. Motor vehicles must not carry more passengers than the approved capacity, and passenger vehicles must not illegally carry cargo. According to regulations, driving a passenger vehicle (excluding buses) or school bus with passengers exceeding the approved capacity by less than 20% results in a fine of 200 yuan and 3 demerit points. Exceeding the approved capacity by more than 20% incurs a fine of 200 yuan and 6 demerit points. 2. Hazards of overloading: First, it significantly increases the risk of traffic accidents. Overloaded vehicles operate under excessive strain, reducing braking and handling performance, which can lead to tire blowouts, brake failure, broken leaf springs, or axle fractures, posing serious safety hazards. Statistics show that over 80% of heavy truck road accidents are caused by overloading. Second, it drastically shortens road lifespan. Overloaded vehicles typically exceed the design load limits of roads and bridges, causing frequent damage such as pavement deterioration and bridge collapses, significantly reducing the normal service life of roads and necessitating premature major repairs.