Understanding Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
Your vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is an important number because it could have many implications. This number can become even more important if you tow a trailer with your vehicle. If your GVWR falls into a certain range, you may need additional insurance as well as a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Dive into all the details below to learn more about GVWR, from your Denver truck accident attorney, including what it is and how to calculate it.
What Is Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)?
The manufacturer determines your vehicle’s GVWR, which specifies its maximum operating weight. Keep in mind that this number is different from the actual weight of the vehicle, which can vary or fluctuate depending on the amount of fuel, cargo, or passengers in the vehicle.
However, the GVWR of your vehicle does not change. In simple terms, the GVWR is your vehicle’s maximum, safe operating weight when fully loaded. If the actual weight of your vehicle exceeds its GVWR, you are creating an unsafe situation that could have serious consequences.
How Can I Determine My Vehicle’s GVWR?
There are a couple of ways you can determine your vehicle’s GVWR. The first method involves some fairly simple calculations.
Calculating the GVWR Yourself
You can calculate this figure by adding:
- Your vehicle’s empty weight
- The weight of passengers, fuel, and other items in the cab of the vehicle
- The maximum tongue weight of any trailer that you are carrying
- The weight of cargo in the bed of the truck
While the calculation is fairly simple, determining all these weights can be a challenge.
Finding the GVWR From Your Vehicle Manufacturer
Thankfully, there is an easier way! Your manufacturer has made it very easy to determine the GVWR of your vehicle by simply looking for the placard inside the driver’s door. Manufacturers place information plates inside the door that display valuable information, such as the GVWR of your vehicle, recommended tire pressure, and other important items.
Additionally, you can check your owner’s manual for this information. The GVWR will be contained somewhere in the owner’s manual.
Researching Your Vehicle’s GVWR
Finally, there are many online resources that allow owners or drivers to find their vehicle’s GVWR. Just make sure that you are looking up the correct vehicle, as GVWR can vary between different models and years.
GVWR Vs. Towing Capacity
Some people confuse GVWR with towing capacity, but those are entirely different. As previously mentioned, the GVWR of your vehicle is the maximum weight at which it should be operated on the road.
However, your vehicle’s towing capacity is the amount of weight that it can safely tow. For instance, if your vehicle’s towing capacity is 8,000 pounds, this means that you can safely tow a trailer that weighs up to 8,000 pounds.
What Happens if I Exceed My Vehicle’s GVWR?
Loading too much cargo or too many accessories on your vehicle can exceed the GVWR. Operating a vehicle is unsafe if the GVWR has been exceeded. First, this could cause equipment failures, leading to a car or truck accident. Axles, brakes, or other mechanical components could fail because they are placed under too much strain.
Additionally, you could get into some legal trouble. Exceeding your vehicle’s GVWR could cause your vehicle to fall into a category that requires a CDL. If you are operating that vehicle without a CDL, you might face some serious fines and other penalties. Some states even classify operating an overloaded vehicle as criminal in some situations.
For instance, if you exceed the GVWR of your vehicle and cause an accident that results in wrongful death, you could face manslaughter charges. This is why you should always be aware of your vehicle’s GVWR and the implications that go along with it.
Contact the Denver Truck Accident Lawyers at Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Denver, CO, Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Denver truck accident attorney.
For more information, please contact the Denver truck accident lawyers at Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation with a Denver personal injury lawyer.
We are located in Denver, CO, proudly serving all of Denver County.
Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers
1610 Wynkoop Street, Suite 120
Denver, CO 80202
(720) 613 9706
