What is a potential consequence of overloading your vehicle?

Overloading a vehicle can significantly impact its performance, particularly in terms of stopping power. When a vehicle is overloaded, the additional weight can cause it to require a longer distance to stop. This occurs because the brakes are working harder to slow down and eventually stop the increased mass. Additionally, the vehicle's braking system may be strained beyond its designed capacity, which can lead to brake failure or decreased effectiveness, especially on hills or in emergency situations.

In contrast, other options like better fuel efficiency and improved acceleration are generally incorrect because excess weight decreases fuel efficiency due to the engine needing to work harder, while acceleration is also hindered as more weight requires more power to achieve the same speed. Increased traction is not typically a result of overloading; rather, it can be compromised due to the risk of losing control under excessive weight. Thus, recognizing the potential reduction in stopping power due to overloading is critical for safe vehicle operation.