Utah CDL General Knowledge Practice Test

A high center of gravity can significantly impact a vehicle's stability, especially when navigating curves. When a vehicle has a high center of gravity, its weight is distributed higher above the ground, which can lead to an increased risk of tipping or rolling over during sharp turns. This instability occurs because the vehicle's weight shifts during a turn, creating a higher likelihood that the center of gravity will exceed the area of support provided by the tires on the ground.

As the vehicle enters a curve, centrifugal force pushes it outward, and if the forces acting upon it are not balanced with the vehicle's stability characteristics, particularly with a high center of gravity, it can lead to a dangerous situation where the vehicle tips over. Heavy vehicles, such as trucks or buses, tend to have a higher center of gravity due to their design and cargo, making it crucial for drivers to be aware of this factor when taking turns.

This understanding is essential for maintaining control and ensuring safety, especially when operating large commercial vehicles. Low center of gravity vehicles, like race cars, typically remain more stable because their weight is closer to the ground, helping them to better handle curves without the same risk of tipping.