What is a significant risk when transporting liquids in tankers?

When transporting liquids in tankers, a significant risk is cargo surging during sudden stops. This phenomenon occurs because liquids are fluid and can shift rapidly within the tank under certain conditions, such as when the vehicle stops suddenly or changes direction.

Surging can lead to a dangerous situation called "free surface effect," which can destabilize the vehicle, causing it to tip over or lose control. This is especially critical with larger quantities of liquid, as the momentum can create substantial forces that impact handling and braking. Proper training and awareness of this risk are essential for drivers to manage their speed and stopping distance effectively.

While overloading, driving too slowly, and using incorrect tire types can present risks in general, they are not as directly related to the unique challenges of transporting liquids as the issue of cargo surging. This underscores the need for specialized knowledge and skill in handling liquid cargo safely.