You’ve fully loaded your car for a long journey, and the rear of the vehicle is sitting lower than usual. Before moving off from the kerb on a busy road, what is the MOST important additional check you should make, beyond your normal mirror and blind-spot checks, to avoid putting other road users at risk?

Explanation

The Highway Code Rule 159 states that before moving off you must check all around, use mirrors, and signal if necessary so you don’t endanger or surprise others. When the vehicle is heavily loaded (see also vehicle loading guidance), you must ensure the load does not obstruct your view to the rear or sides. If your rearward vision is restricted by luggage or equipment, you cannot make effective observations before moving off, increasing the risk of missing cyclists or other traffic alongside you. Simply signalling for longer or moving off quickly does not compensate for poor visibility. You must adjust or reposition the load so that you can see properly before you move off.