Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) Law Enforcement Driver Practice Test

What causes a vehicle's weight transfer to change?

1. Acceleration, deceleration or change in direction

2. Weather conditions

3. Road surface type

4. Driver's mood

The correct answer is: Acceleration, deceleration or change in direction

A vehicle's weight transfer is significantly influenced by acceleration, deceleration, or changes in direction because these movements alter the forces acting on the vehicle. When a vehicle accelerates, the weight shifts toward the rear wheels, enhancing traction at the back. Conversely, during deceleration or braking, weight shifts forward, increasing traction on the front wheels, which is crucial for effective steering control. In turns, weight transfers toward the outer wheels, which can impact grip and balance. While factors such as weather conditions or road surface type can affect overall vehicle stability and traction, they do not directly cause changes in weight transfer itself. The driver's mood does not influence the physical dynamics of the vehicle's weight distribution. Therefore, the properties of acceleration, braking, and turning are the primary elements modifying how weight is distributed across a vehicle's chassis during operation.